Posted by TexasTJ on January 24, 2000 at 19:06:49:
In Reply to: HOW MANY ERRORS ARE ACCEPTABLE? posted by Nancy on January 24, 2000 at 15:22:45:
If you're referring to how many misinterpretations of and/or unable to interpret words when typing from a tape or handwritten copy - I'm not aware of any such standard/guideline.
From my experience you need to give yourself time to become accustomed to each client's transcription and/or writing style (or lack thereof) and industry jargon. I've had several clients I joke with that they could qualify for a doctor's degree based on their handwriting. Now, I can whiz through their scribbles with fewer question marks and/or blanks. (And the terminology I've learned through the one client (airplane lingo) helped me today with a new client's transcription work.)
Most people with difficult to interpret handwriting are quite aware that's it's hard for people to read (my husband sometimes can't even read his OWN handwriting days later!). My philosophy is a bit different than a friend's. I feel I need to strive harder to interpret a client's writing, not work harder on getting them to write clearer. Eventually, the client starts to write a bit clearer (to avoid so many ________ blank spaces to fill in) and/or I start to interpret their squiggles better.
If the client isn't commenting on how many blanks/questionable areas you have to leave -- relax!! Perhaps the 10 errors/inaudible you are seeing per page are half of what they're used to getting. However, if the frustration is just getting to be too much for you, either drop the client or ensure you're charging enough to cover the extra time and frustration involved with doing their work.
Best of luck to you!