What is Voice Recognition Software?

Voice recognition software gives computer users the ability to input information into a computer by using their voices. A user can use voice recognition to dictate text into a computer or to give commands to the computer. One can order the computer to open application programs, to pull down menus, or to save work.

As you speak, the voice recognition software remembers the way you say each word. This customization of response allows voice recognition programs to understand various individual speaking styles. In addition to learning how you pronounce words, voice recognition also uses frequency of use and grammatical context to predict the word you may wish to input.
 

Voice Recognition: the Benefits

• Voice recognition benefits the user in that it reduces repetitive motions.
• Also, voice recognition is very beneficial to users who are unable to use their hands to type.

Voice Recognition: Some Considerations

While voice recognition software provides some significant benefits, it also raises some important considerations that need to be understood.
 

• Be informed of the extensive time needed to train the software.
  
  Voice recognition programs require the user’s time and dedication to train and re-train the program to recognize that user’s voice. Usually this training process takes between 4 to 6 hours to initially complete and more training may be needed in the future.
   
• Be consistent with how you speak.
  
  Inconsistent speech will cause inaccurate voice recognition. If the user has a cold, slurred speech, or stuttering speech the voice recognition performance will be significantly reduced.
   
• Be alert to how the noise around you will influence the voice recognition.
  
  Background noise can interfere with proper voice recognition. Some voice recognition programs run diagnostic tests that report to the user about the influence of background noise.
   
• Be aware that voice recognition lacks portability.
  
  Voice recognition programs store the information about how to recognize a user’s voice in user data files. Often these user data files are stored on the computer’s hard drive and are not portable. This lack of portability means that the data files can not be moved from computer to computer.
   

Dragon Naturally Speaking

Dragon Naturally Speaking lets you talk to your computer instead of typing. As you type, your words are transcribed onto your screen and into your document or e-mail messages.

One reason to use Dragon Naturally Speaking is to do your writing more quickly; creating letters, reports, and other documents by voice. Another is to reduce the stress associated with keyboarding. The idea to just sit back in your chair, and to place your hands at your side while still getting work done can be very appealing.

Dragon Naturally Speaking features:

• Compose letters, memos, and send e-mail messages by voice
• Enter data into forms and spreadsheets
• Work on the web
• Start programs and open menus

IBM ViaVoice

See IBM ViaVoice’s website for more information.
http://www-3.ibm.com/software/speech/

iSpeak (Mac)

See iSpeak’s website for more information.
http://www.fonix.com/

 

Sample Voice Recognition Screen Views