The development of an experimental discrete dictation recognizer

This paper describes an experimental real-time recognizer of isolated word dictation implemented at the IBM Thomas J. Watson Research Center, on a system of commercially available computers and array processors. The recognizer's intended use is creation of office memoranda. It is based on a 5000-word vocabulary. A specially designed workstation enables the user to correct and edit the transcribed speech. The paper outlines the self-organized, statistical approach underlying the basic algorithms of the recognizer. Results of several recognition experiments are then presented. The rest of the paper considers important issues in the future development of dictation recognizers, such as vocabulary selection, language model creation, and human factors.