Voice Recognition Software: What Options are Available?

Voice recognition software describes a computer program that takes dictation, meaning it converts spoken words into text on a computer. Most of these programs also have the ability to control computer functions, such as opening applications, minimizing and maximizing windows and so forth. There are some programs that can enable a microphone to do anything performed by a mouse and keyboard. With such capabilities, voice recognition software offers numerous benefits and can change the way you conduct business or work in general. After becoming proficient with voice recognition software, you will find that it can dramatically reduce stress and preserve your health as well.

Although voice recognition software has made tremendous strides over the years, it is still far off from the efficiency of the Star Trek Enterprise. However, it is starting to arrive at such advancements. In this article, we will overview two of the most popular programs on the market and explain how they work.

Dragon NaturallySpeaking

Dragon NaturallySpeaking is leading the charge in voice recognition software, offering more efficiency in version 9 of the franchise. The accuracy of this program is incredible, producing very few errors for someone who speaks fluently. When it does make a mistake, the correction tool presents suggestions or allows you to make the corrections yourself by spelling out the text. The program trains itself, learning from your corrections and becoming more proficient as time goes on.

The latest version of the program allows you to skip the training part, but this setup process is actually worthwhile and recommended for the best results. There are several options for dictation with fun passages, such as quotes from Alice in Wonderland and John F. Kennedy's inaugural speech. It can also scan the text from your applications, such as Word or WordPerfect, which helps the program understand how you write. This voice recognition software comes with excellent support in the form of a built-in help section and a 120-page manual.

IBM ViaVoice

ViaVoice is a veteran in voice recognition software. While it still bears the IBM logo, this product is currently being distributed by Nuance, the same company that develops the Dragon NaturallySpeaking software. When compared to Dragon, ViaVoice is lacking in the terms of accuracy, but is quite useful nevertheless. Because it has lower system requirements, this program is better suited for older computers.

For the training process, ViaVoice offers excerpts from well known stories, such as Treasure Island. Simply read a few lines into the microphone, and the software analyzes the input to better recognize your voice and style of speech. This program can be a little frustrating, but after you work with an application like Microsoft Word for a while, the process becomes much easier. Aside from dictation, it makes commands for various word editing applications and Internet Explorer. The ViaVoice voice recognition software is currently available in Personal, Standard, Advanced and Pro USB editions.

Regardless of what voice recognition software you purchase, keep in mind that training the program is the key. This will maximize its usefulness by improving accuracy and helping you speak more naturally when sitting down to chat with your computer.