Towards the end of 1872 several writers of Pitman's shorthand (phonography) held a meeting in London and started the Phonetic Shorthand Writers Association. Then, in 1890 The National Phonographic Society was formed.

The two groups amalgamated in 1894 to form The Incorporated Phonographic Society (the IPS) and we were duly incorporated at Companies House in 1898. A group of shorthand enthusiasts, we believe we are the oldest society of shorthand writers in the world, awarding certificates and trophies which are accepted as proof of undoubted shorthand proficiency.

We encourage shorthand writers to reach the highest speeds of which they are capable by providing regular speed dictation, on online via Zoom on Monday evenings. We now embrace all systems of shorthand, machine or pen.

The current President, (John Dawson) and Chair (Mary Sorene), are both Pitman New Era pen writers.

The IPS also awards typing certificates. Our Patron is Damian Pitman, the Great-Great Grandson of Sir Isaac Pitman and we welcome new members from all over the world. Current members include verbatim reporters, journalists, teachers of shorthand and typing and private secretaries.

A quick dip into the history of the IPS and you will recognise the names of some of the founders also referred to in the annals of the Institute of Shorthand Writers (now BIVR) as well as Intersteno.

One such person, common to all three groups, being Thomas Allen Reed. The IPS is proud to sponsor the 55th Intersteno Congress in Liverpool in 2026.

https://the-ips.org.uk