Dragon voice recognition software is not a simple plug-and-play kind of software. While the productivity solution was available as a boxed product at stores like Incredible Connection and Computermania, it should have come with a sticker pointing to companies like HCD for assistance in installing the software, setting it up, training and tech support for optimal usage.
Meeting at the point of concurrence between hardware, software and the human element, it’s easy to understand how tricky it can be to go it alone. While we meet people who have managed to install the software and get to a basic level of usage, they’re always surprised at just how much they’re actually missing out on in terms of features and customisation. Moreover, their limited usage becomes a new normal and seems adequate to them when they just don’t know any better.
Having professional assistance, you’re able to bypass the first few weeks of struggle. Customising the product from day 1 can save you a few weeks of hassle in trying to get a grip on everyday usage. While we’re happy to help users at any stage of their journey, it’s still a readjustment to simply start using Dragon whether you’re going solo or have a co-pilot.
Many users are so used to typing that it’s easy to slip back into old habits. Hitting a snag on a day of deadlines, who can blame someone for leaning into the tried-and-tested approach. We understand there’s a level of change management and whatever works quickest is our policy, so in these precious and urgent moments, it’s not a sin.
However, there are some suggestions on how to make Dragon part of your routine so that you can eventually get to the point where you start to wonder what you’re doing… when your fingers hit the keyboard. Dictating with Dragon is fun. Sit back in your chair, issue commands and have Dragon automatically transcribe your words… it’s an amazing time-saving technology that can empower users.
1. Power up, Start Dragon
Make this a habit and you’ll adopt the software much more quickly. It’s not having it running in the background that makes us second guess ourselves.
2. Get Through Emails in a Jiffy
While there’s a temptation to give curt responses or no responses to incoming email, Dragon makes it a breeze to get through your correspondence. Whittle down that inbox in no time, using basic navigation commands to address each email. Using Dragon gives you the luxury of dealing with each email in full and is a great way to get into Dragon mode.
3. Have Your Headset Ready
Be sure to have your headset ready to go. Refrain from keeping it in a draw, rather have it plugged in and ready to play. Headphone stands can make it easier to store when you’re not using it and be sure to keep the wire off the floor if there’s a chance your chair wheels could roll over it.
4. Keep Calm and Carry On
Your dictation habits will become second nature if you can dedicate yourself to using Dragon every day and as often as possible for three weeks. Focus on getting more work done so that you can free up your weekend. The more you use it, the more familiar you’ll become and soon, typing will start to seem like the alternative input.
5. Be Accountable to Someone
If you know of someone else using Dragon in your office, tell them to check in on you and your usage. It’s easier to know that someone is counting on you. They’ll know what you’re going through and can help motivate you. Otherwise, ask your trainer to drop you an email every now and then to find out how things are going and be sure to iron out anything that’s preventing you from using it. If there’s an error or are struggling to make corrections, let them know about it.