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- Sorenson Communications, Inc.
Sorenson Communications, Inc.
The mission of Sorenson Communications, LLC is to deliver the highest-quality communication products and services to Deaf people. Sorenson is the leading provider of Video Relay Service (VRS), which combines innovative technology and the highest-quality, professional American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting to bridge the communication gap between Deaf and hearing people. Calls are placed through Sorenson Video Relay Service® (SVRS®), a free, 24/7 service that empowers Deaf and hearing callers to converse in their native languages – American Sign Language (ASL) or spoken English or Spanish. SVRS® calls are conducted in real time through a high-speed internet connection. The Deaf caller uses a Sorenson videophone, PC, Mac® or mobile device to place the call, which is then routed to a VRS call center and to an interpreter, who appears on the device’s screen. The Deaf caller signs the message to the interpreter, who speaks the message to the intended hearing recipient, then “relays” the conversation between the two parties. This mode of communication delivers functionally-equivalent communication, as mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Additional Culture Details
Sorenson’s reputation as market leader attracts a variety of workers, some of which include engineers, trainers, marketing practitioners and American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters. These workers want to join the Sorenson team and the culture, which is a unique melding of people with corporate, deaf-related and technology experience. Sorenson is the largest private employer of ASL interpreters, with more than 4,000 interpreters comprising a culture within the Sorenson organization. This service-oriented group processes calls from one of Sorenson’s more than 100 call centers. Sorenson’s ASL professionals receive ongoing training and certification test preparation. In addition, they “tag team” on more challenging videophone calls, including 911 calls. Their esprit de corps extends beyond the workplace as they “Race for the Cure,” collect coats for the homeless and prepare sack lunches for food pantries. Sorenson is in the process of implementing a new “Better Together” program to provide a venue for employees to share successes and concerns and as a way to deliver regular corporate communication.