Talk It Out: How Microsoft Dictate and Transcription Tools Can Boost Productivity
Typing out documents can be time-consuming and mentally tiring, especially if you’re dyslexic (like me) or prone to sore hands after long sessions at the keyboard. That’s where Microsoft Dictate comes in. Built into Word and Outlook, Dictate lets you speak your thoughts instead of typing them, helping you get started faster and with less friction.
Why Dictate Is a Game-Changer
- Accessibility: Ideal for users with dyslexia, learning differences, or visual impairments. Dictation helps bridge the gap between ideas and execution.
- Speed: Talking is often quicker than typing, especially when brainstorming or drafting.
- Comfort: Reduces physical strain from long typing sessions.
Dictate is perfect for first drafts, quick notes, and longer-form writing when you want to focus on ideas rather than mechanics. You’ll still need to tidy up grammar and tweak a few words—but the hard part (getting started) becomes much easier.
Learn more: Use Dictate in Microsoft Word
Transcribe Audio with Microsoft Word
If you’ve recorded a meeting, interview, or brainstorming session, you can upload the audio file to Word and let it transcribe the conversation for you. It’s a smart way to turn real-time collaboration into actionable content.
Great for:
- Creating SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) from team discussions
- Capturing business meeting notes
- Drafting documentation quickly
- Recording interviews or research
Learn more: Transcribe your recordings in Word
Stay Present with Teams Premium
Microsoft Teams Premium (£8.09 per user/month on an annual subscription) supports live transcription during meetings, so you can stay focused without worrying about note-taking.
Benefits:
- Contribute fully without distraction
- Get a reliable record of discussions
- Make follow-ups and task tracking easier
Learn more: Recording and transcription in Teams
Did You Know?
Most Microsoft 365 users get 300 minutes/month for transcription. If you have a Copilot licence, you get up to 30,000 minutes/month!
Dictate is great for:
- Capturing meeting notes
- Drafting emails hands-free
- Supporting neurodiverse team members
Try it out in Word or Outlook today!
Ready to Work Smarter?
Whether you’re looking to improve accessibility, save time on documentation, or stay focused during meetings, Microsoft Dictate and transcription tools can make a real difference.
Need help setting it up or training your team?
Get in touch with Lugo’s friendly tech experts, we’ll walk you through it and tailor the tools to your workflow.
