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MassRelay: STS (Speech-to-Speech)

MassRelay: STS (Speech-to-Speech)

Speech-to-Speech (STS) is especially useful for people who have difficulty speaking or being understood on the telephone. STS Relay involves specially trained Operators (OPR) who are familiar with the speech patterns of a wide variety of individuals who have difficulty being understood.

Placing Calls

  1. Dial 711 or the toll-free STS number for your state.
  2. Provide the STS OPR the number you wish to call, plus any special instructions.
  3. The OPR will ask the person you are calling if he/she is familiar with STS. If the person is not, the OPR will explain how STS works before the conversation begins.
  4. The OPR will repeat your part of the conversation, in short phrases, unless you request otherwise. The OPR will work closely with you to ensure your entire conversation is understood.
  5. Say “Go Ahead” or “GA” each time you are finished speaking and are ready for a response. The conversation will proceed in this manner until the call is complete.
  6. To end your call, say “GA to SK” or simply say “Goodbye.”

Helpful Tips

  • Establish a Customer Profile to store helpful information about your calls. This will allow the OPR to process your calls more efficiently.
  • Give the OPR as much information as possible about your call prior to the OPR dialing. For example, if you know you are calling an automated system that requires you to select from a number of options, let the OPR know which options you want before the call is placed.
  • If you reach an answering machine, the OPR will request and verify your full message and then call back to leave that message.
  • It is helpful if you pause while the OPR repeats your part of the conversation.
  • You or the person you are calling may request that the OPR remain in the background. If you need the OPR to assist at any time during the call, you must request the OPR to do so. This is especially helpful when calling family, friends or others who are familiar with your speech.
  • There is no time limit and you may make as many consecutive calls as you want. You should not be concerned with the length of time a call may take.
  • You may request a male or female OPR and as long as one is available, your request will be honored.

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