AI transforms multilingual event planning landscape

Independent research conducted by Interprefy, a provider of multilingual event technology and services, has indicated a growing trend towards the adoption of AI-powered speech translation among multilingual event planners.

The findings suggest a substantial 94% of multilingual event planning professionals are open to integrating AI-powered speech translation into their future events. This represents a notable uptake in this technology, which has been available for less than two years. Insights were gathered from over 1,000 decision-makers involved in events, marketing, and project management in multinational companies globally.

Despite the rapid adoption of AI technology, the research indicates that human expertise in translation remains paramount. There remains a delineation where AI-powered and professional simultaneous interpretation have specific strengths, prompting organisers to select services that best match their event requirements.

Professional simultaneous interpretation is still the predominant choice among event planners, with 70% continuing to employ in-person interpreters. This preference is attributed to the ability of human interpreters to accurately convey cultural nuances and context, which is essential in high-stakes settings where misinterpretations can lead to serious misunderstandings.

Oddmund Braaten, CEO at Interprefy, commented, "AI-powered speech translation has brought remarkable efficiency and scalability to the table, but it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The choice between AI and professional interpretation ultimately depends on the nature of the event. AI is incredibly effective for delivering verbatim translations with speed and precision, while professional interpreters excel in applying cultural context and understanding the nuances of colloquial language."

One of the main benefits of AI-powered speech translation is its ability to deliver verbatim translations, preserving the original words of the speaker, which is particularly advantageous for large-scale conferences or webinars targeting global audiences.

Nevertheless, the research points to some reluctance among event planners to adopt AI-powered translation. About 56% of those hesitant to use AI in future events cite concerns about the accuracy of AI translations, highlighting an ongoing need for further technological developments and educational efforts to bolster confidence in AI solutions.

Braaten further noted, "The findings suggest a growing recognition among event planners that translation services should be tailored to the unique needs of each event. For high-stakes situations requiring cultural sensitivity, such as diplomatic meetings or complex negotiations, professional interpreters remain indispensable. Meanwhile, AI-powered solutions offer a compelling option for scenarios where speed, scalability, and cost-efficiency are paramount."

He added, "As the industry evolves, we're seeing a shift towards a hybrid approach that combines the best of both worlds. By leveraging the strengths of AI alongside human interpreters, event organisers can deliver a superior experience for multilingual audiences, ensuring both accuracy and cultural sensitivity."

"The rise of AI-powered live translation services is reshaping the way multilingual events are planned and executed. While professional simultaneous interpretation continues to play a vital role, AI is rapidly becoming an essential tool in the event planning arsenal. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each solution, event organisers can make informed decisions that enhance communication and engagement across diverse audiences," concluded Braaten.

These insights and more are detailed in Interprefy's report titled 'Global businesses and live translation: an Interprefy report investigating how and why business event organisers use live translation services.'