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Here are some questions that may help in your search for a CART provider to ensure effective communication for a deaf or hard-of-hearing consumer:
- What certifications do you hold?
Registered Professional Reporter (RPR) or a state court reporter certification is considered the “minimum” skill level for providing CART. The Certified Realtime Reporter (CRR) or a state realtime or CART certification is preferred.
- What CART training do you have?
NCRA and some state court reporter associations offer CART training. Since CART providers perform duties similar to an interpreter for communication access, special training that includes sensitivity, ethics and technical skills is essential.
- What CART experience do you have? Please provide references.
More specifically, ask the question "What is your experience in providing CART in XYZ situation?" Experience in a particular setting and with terminology unique to the assignment will ensure better communication. The best reference is a satisfied CART consumer.
- Do you have experience displaying through a data projector or onto a television? What display equipment do you need us to provide? What are you able to provide?
For larger audiences a CART provider should be experienced in connecting his or her notebook computer to a data projector or a television. The CART provider typically has his or her own PC-to-TV converter and cables, but the hiring party usually provides the television or data projector. Keep in mind that two displays may be required if there is to be a PowerPoint presentation by
a speaker.
- Do you know how to change the font size and colors on the CART screen if requested?
Experienced CART providers are able to enlarge fonts and change text and background colors for better readability by the consumers.
- Do you have professional liability insurance?
If the CART provider carries professional liability insurance, the hiring party is better protected in the event of a claim made which specifically involves the CART provider.
- What is your hourly charge or per diem? Do you charge portal to portal or just for the assignment time? Is there a minimum charge? Is there a different charge for evenings or weekends? Is there a charge for time spent in preparation, equipment setup or travel?
These questions will help you understand various charging methods and give you the ability to make appropriate comparisons. For example, you may receive a quote of $60 an hour from portal to portal from one CART provider and $90 an hour from another for the assignment time only. If 1.5 hours is charged for travel and setup time, the $60-an-hour person’s total charge is $210 for a two-hour assignment as compared to the $90-an-hour person’s total charge of $180.
© 2002 National Court Reporters Association, All Rights Reserved
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