I have been researching and testing personal computer speech recognition software for about 15 years. Like most people I have been mostly frustrated and dissatisfied with the efforts that have been made to perfect it, until now.
A few years ago Nuance, the world leader in speech technology, began releasing versions of its Dragon Naturally Speaking software that were actually capable of making the entry of text into a PC faster and, for many people, more accurately than doing it manually. This software developed into the current versions of Naturally Speaking and its MacIntosh relative, MacSpeech Dictate, which can be used to enter text into almost any computer application and execute computer commands, as well. Users with limited mobility will find this a major benefit in their computing lives.
Some people will feel uncomfortable talking to a computer, especially at first. However, you will find the benefits so great that you will be able to get used to it. My wife and I both do lots of work on our separate computers, which are both in the same room. We have now become accustomed to talking to both computers at the same time!
All speech recognition software requires you to begin with a basic training procedure that teaches you how to work with the system, while at the same time analyzing your voice and learning your unique speech patterns. It only takes a few minutes, and is worthwhile as an investment in enabling your computer to respond to your voice. For me the system works best if I enunciate a little more deliberately and precisely than I would in most conversations. It is somewhat like talking to a person who is well-trained in your language but is not a native speaker. It is possible, to correct errors that the system has made by voice, as well. Once you learn voice control of the cursor this is faster than using the keyboard, and helps to teach your computer your voice.
Nuance estimates that an experienced user will dictate with 99% accuracy and about three times faster than a fast typist can type. To get an idea of what this means, imagine dictating to a person who was typing as fast as you can speak, and understands and spells your words correctly.
Dragon NaturallySpeaking 10 Preferred is easy to install and can be purchased with or without a microphone, including wireless microphones. Be aware that it will not work well with all microphones because microphones vary enormously in their sound fidelity. Nuance also offers simple dictation applications for smart phones! I use one and it is great!
I suggest that you take a look at this two-minute video demonstration. I believe you will be amazed! If you would like more information, click on the advertising banners or links in this post. Let me know what you think. Thanks!
