Top 6 Features to Look for in an Interpretation Partner for the Public Sector

Government agencies depend on trusted interpretation partners to ensure compliance, access, and security in public services. But not all language providers are created equal. Here’s what sets the best apart.

1- Compliance with Public Sector Standards

Interpretation in the public sector isn’t just about language skills, it requires strict adherence to government standards.

Your interpretation provider should:

• Be HIPAA, FERPA, and/or CJIS compliant depending on your agency

• Employ qualified interpreters with public sector experience

• Provide ongoing interpreter training and evaluation

Ad Astra’s interpreters undergo rigorous vetting and continuous training to align with public agency requirements.

2- Data Security & Confidentiality

Agencies often deal with sensitive information, from health records to legal proceedings. Data breaches or interpreter leaks can lead to reputational damage or legal exposure.

Your language partner must offer:

• Encrypted interpretation sessions (especially for VRI and OPI)

• NDAs signed by all interpreters

• Secure scheduling and communication tools

Ad Astra uses secure platforms and protects every session with built-in confidentiality protocols.

3- Multi-Channel Language Access

Public-facing departments need flexibility. A great partner offers access via:

• Over-the-Phone Interpretation (OPI)

• Video Remote Interpretation (VRI) & Virtual Interpretation (VI)

• In-person interpreting

Multi-channel access ensures citizens get help in their language, whether at a DMV office, over the phone, or during virtual public hearings.

Ad Astra provides all four modes, supported by a 24/7 scheduling system.

4- Integration with Public Systems and Tools

Today’s public agencies rely on platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and proprietary scheduling tools.

Top interpretation providers integrate seamlessly by offering:

• API and platform integration for scheduling

• Embeddable interpretation via video conferencing tools

• Real-time interpreter availability matching

AdAstraConnect allows public sector teams to request, manage, and launch interpreting sessions in seconds.

5- Cultural Competence and Community Understanding

Interpreters must do more than translate words, they must understand cultural nuances to prevent miscommunication.

The right provider invests in:

• Cultural training for interpreters

• Access to rare and indigenous languages

• Interpreter-community alignment based on region

This ensures equitable, respectful communication across all public service interactions.

6- Scalable Capacity for High-Demand Agencies

Public sector demand can spike due to emergencies, seasonal surges, or new mandates.

Your language partner should offer:

• Flexible scaling options

• Thousands of interpreters in 300+ languages

• Emergency response workflows for urgent interpreting

Ad Astra’s international interpreter network and scalable infrastructure can support growing needs across counties, departments, cities, and countries.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right interpretation partner for the public sector is about more than language, it’s about compliance, access, and service excellence.

Whether you're a city clerk, health department, or public school, partnering with Ad Astra means:

• Secure, compliant interpretation

• Fast, multi-channel access

• Seamless scheduling

• Culturally informed service

Looking for a public sector interpretation partner who understands compliance and scale?

Book a free consultation
with Ad Astra today and see how we support agencies across the country.