Dragon is an umbrella when it comes to its coverage on your PC or Mac. Most users rely on the software for its ability to transcribe their talk into type. Requiring text in so many different applications you can understand why it needs to hook into each of these scenarios for maximum convenience. While Dragon attempts to be fully compatible with virtually any text field, this often just isn’t possible. Trying to remain up-to-speed with each and every application from across the board, it can be an impossible task to stay current with the latest updates and changes, which are happening more readily and automatically for users these days.
Some would argue that Dragon should actually use the dictation box as its primary input for any scenario to make the whole system much simpler and less dependent on other applications. Starting with this configuration would make it easier to use but since many have already become accustomed to being able to simply dictate in the most popular applications such as Microsoft Office, this would seem like a step backwards.
In order to overcome compatibility issues, Dragon relies on what is referred to as an add-in. This little applet connects the software with the application in use so that you can dictate and use commands within that environment with ease. The problem is that this add-in can be dropped for a number of reasons, making the software seem incompatible. Restoring or reinstalling this add-in isn’t all that easy to figure out, which is why it’s a good idea to call on our tech support for assistance.
Possibly the most frustrating of all add-ins and extensions are the ones that link you to internet browsers. Not seen as a priority, these add-ins have been put on the backburner when it comes to rectifying ongoing issues. Receiving a 2-star rating, it does seem like a good time to address these complaints. More applications are becoming web-based, which necessitates the add-in and if it isn’t reliable, this is bad for business.
When it comes to these issues, the dictation box often kicks in to save the day. Developers don’t ordinarily think of Dragon compatibility when creating their notes sections. So the dictation box pop-up is a readymade remedy in most instances. The problem is when it doesn’t pop up. Some applications have stringent security measures, which prevent any “unauthorised” pop-up windows. Dragon may seem like one of these after a new batch of security updates.
What should really be happening is that developers realise the popularity of Dragon as an input and adjust their software, desktop or web-based to ensure the gates are wide open for full compatibility. Until then, we’ve got to get used to dictating into the dictation box or creating tailored macro commands as a workaround.