Communications Intelligence: Transcriber Output Enhancement

Abstract : A workflow model of major transcriber functions was developed and time data for these functions were collected on 52 operational personnel. A time analysis was performed with respect to individual functions and logical sets of functions for a representative sample of the operationally meaningful groups of transcribers. The time analysis of transcriber functions indicated that about one-third of productive time was spent in the Listen, Rock, and Search functions and another one-third in doing these functions in conjunction with others. About 11% of the transcribers' time was spent in obtaining help from reference material, 5% in the tape changing functions, and 8% in team work functions. Differences clearly existed between organizational groups in the time spent on specific transcriber functions. Development of procedures to enable transcribers to exploit digitization and computer storage of taped communications should improve productivity at least 10% to 20% by eliminating search and tape changing functions, by reducing time spent in getting help from reference material and other transcribers and in giving help, and improving exploitation of source material.