Home > Writings > Science & Technology > Real-time text: a Primer > Interactivity and Relay Services

Real-time text: a Primer

Interactivity and Relay Services

Rather than simply dividing text communications into two categories (conversational versus non-conversational), I prefer to use the above concept of a spectrum where different methods reside at either end or anywhere between both extremes. For example, Instant Messaging is not as conversational as real-time text, but clearly offers a more interactive model than email. On the other hand, people often do use non-conversational methods such as SMS to have a kind of "conversation" (with rapid exchange of messages in both directions) via what is in essence a store-and-forward message based system.

In representing these different text communication methods on a spectrum in this manner, it is easier to understand why there remains a plethora of text communication products and services, rather than a single "winner": different solutions offer a different experience and meet different needs. In many cases, they are alternatives that suit a given situation better or worse and users therefore will make different choices depending on context and preferences. However, there are also user groups for whom text communication is a necessity and a substitute for other communication methods (voice for example) and where the requirement to use text as a replacement (rather than an alternative) determines choice. Real-time text can offer a unique, conversational, experience to all users. In addition, it can be the only suitable method for particular user groups (especially those who need an alternative to conversational voice).

A special case where the highest level of interactivity is of great importance, and where therefore real-time text stands out as the best solution (being the most conversational of the available methods), is where relay services are being used. A relay service transcodes information between different modalities. For example, a text relay service can connect a voice and a text user (with for instance one caller on a voice phone and the other using a textphone), transposing text into voice and vice-versa. Where the purpose of the communication is direct conversation (as opposed to message delivery), the conversion between the two modalities (text and voice) needs to happen in (almost) real-time. Under such circumstances, the usability of a relay service decreases rapidly if the interactivity diminishes. Real-time text is for such situations almost critical.

Next: Conclusion and Further Reading