Portfolio: SignOn VRI

Overview

SignOn Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) is an easy-to-use video interpreting system that uses the latest web-based technology for on-demand access to sign language interpreting services without an interpreter onsite. With just a computer, webcam and a high-speed broadband connection, customers can have instant access to SignOn’s highly trained interpreters.

Solid Thinking Interactive was approached by SignOn Inc to create a web-based conferencing solution to add to their already existing Sign Language Interpreting services. The client requirements included an easy-to-use conferencing application that could operate smoothly at fullscreen while using text, audio and video based communication. They also required a web presence for the service that would act as not only an informational tool for the service, but also new account signup, user account administration and interpreting session scheduling. Finally, a fast and efficient back-end system was needed to tie together the site and application in order to share user, scheduling and billing information.This site was most definitely one of our most challenging projects due to the amount of cutting edge technology involved. This new SignOn site is concentrating on interpreting services for the deaf and hard of hearing through live video and audio. New users will register with the site and find an interpreter that will, by live video/audio on the site, interpret what is being said in another completely different location.

	Client: SignOn Inc
	Date: 02/2006
	Category: Rich Internet Applications
	Credits:
	Planning & Programming: Graeme Bull Creative Direction & Design: Kris Honeycutt Site Maintenance: SignOn Inc.
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Design & Technology

Leveraging the high saturation of the Flash Player and robust capabilities of Flash Media Server, it was possible to create a Flash based conferencing application that not only met, but exceeded the clients requirements, without having to worry about obscure proprietary plug-ins. Initially, the requirement for fullscreen (800x600) real-time video streaming was of concern, however after some quick tests at 30 frames per second, FMS performed cleanly within the minimum technical requirements set by the client.

The website architecture and interface were constructed adhering to both structural and creative requests made by the client and they were pleased with the resulting friendly yet professional appeal of the design. All forms in the site were authored in Flash, as well as the entire administration system, in order to have greater control over layout, simplify usability and to reduce the time required for development. Short video spots, also utilizing the Flash Player, are used throughout the site to reinforce text content.