[People meet to communicate. When they speak different languages, essential information can all too easily be lost. Professional conference interpretation can ensure that every participant, irrespective of his or her knowledge of the language of the speaker, understands the message.]

Conference interpretation is used at meetings where more than one language is spoken. It is a tool used to communicate the message of the speakers and delegates from one language to another or many others. The role of the interpreter is to communicate the speaker's meaning (and not just his/her words).

There are two forms of conference interpretation:

    • Simultaneous Interpretation: is the most frequently used form (where the interpreter speaks at the same time as the speaker, usually through electronic equipment).
    • Consecutive Interpretation: is used for small discussion groups and in negotiations (where the interpreter repeats after the speaker).

Interpreters work in teams to perform their highly demanding tasks. ICI uses the professional norms established over many years to determine team sizes that ensure optimal quality.

For more information on conference interpretation, please refer to the tips and links.