Evaluation of Voice Recognition Technology
The research discusses the basics of voice recognition technology (VR) and the state of the art; costs and capabilities of the various commercial systems, as well as some of the major applications. To determine whether VR is suitable for a particular user, the report also provides information on planning and implementing a VR system. (SD-76, p. 68)
The potential uses of voice technology in construction are significant and include both the home office and construction site. Nevertheless, this potential must be fully explored to yield reasonable economic benefits. VR technology is not cost effective if one simply buys an off the shelf piece of equipment and delivers it to the office or site. VR, like other technologies in automatic identification, must be part of a system, with clear productivity advantages. A careful study as to where the technology will be used, who will use it, and what should be accomplished by its use must precede any initiation of implementation of a voice system. Upper management must endorse and be responsible for this process if voice recognition is to have any opportunity to prove itself.
An important reason for using voice recognition in the near future is an activity or series of activities having characteristics such as "hands-busy, eyes-busy," continuous, and repetitive. The most likely field engineering and construction uses are quality inspection, safety inspection, materials takeoff, CAD, and materials handling. There are potential uses in contracting, purchasing, and other office situations where a great amount of keyboard entry is required.
