Innovative language solution to enhance food pantry efficiency by breaking the language barrier.

Client

Toyota Mobility Foundation

Role

Product Designer

Project details

Timeline:  July 2023 - July 2024
Team:

Problem

The partnering pantry struggled with lengthy client check-in processes, particularly for non-English speakers, whose check-ins took twice as long as those of English-speaking clients.

Underlying Issue: Language barriers
It created delays due to staff reliance on translation apps for repetitive client intake questions, impacting client experience and pantry efficiency.

Solution

Translator Playlist. It enables staff to customize and pre-load common check-in conversations and questions, translating them into any language with one click.

Scalable, and any existing translator applications can integrate this feature.

Project Overview

(3 mins) Everything you need to know about this project.

Impact

Project / Individual Impact:
+ 39.44 %

Accelerated new client registration process, cutting average time from 9 minutes to 5.45 minutes

+ 40 %

Accelerated returning client check-in process, cutting average time from 3.5 minutes to 2.1 minutes

+ 26.24 %
Improved Overall Check-In Process Efficiency

'Zero dollars' spent.

Designed and built a scalable translation web application utilizing FlutterFlow (low-code development platform) that is currently being used at the pantry, without spending a dollar.

Final Deliverable

I developed and deployed the Translator Playlist web application as a temporary solution and proof of concept. Conducted live product testing during pantry day. The application is now actively used at two pantries.

Future Exploration

I developed high-fidelity prototypes for concept integration within the most widely used translator application.

85% of interviewed pantry personnel reported reliance on Google Translate as their primary translator application, followed by Apple Translate.

Implemented the Material Design system
Created additional components to enhance user experience

The playlist feature as a chrome extension

Translate to any language in a single click

Auto translate client response in real time

The playlist feature in the google translate mobile app

Curious about the journey? Let’s dive deeper

Spent 2 years obsessing over hyper-detailed case studies, but honestly, there's no perfect balance—everyone's questions and needs vary by role and perspective. This showcase is merely a glimpse; the true essence lies in the journey itself. If you're intrigued, let's chat for 15 minutes—I’ll happily share insights, challenges, and even some juicy gossip from behind the scenes.

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