Describe Project and Impact:
Since our job is to provide services to the communities around us this project would allow us to successfully communicate with non-English speakers.
Project Description and Expected Outcomes:
The Pilot System by Waverly Labs is an in-ear wearing device that allows the wearer to understand several various languages in a real-time translation format. By utilizing this tool, it would allow MLS employees to comprehend another language and also to be able to effectively communicate back in English while having it translated into the non-English speaker’s language.
* I would guess the entire project would cost $20,000 at the most to implement.
An app will allow you to toggle through the languages you want, and the selection includes but is not limited to: French, Spanish, Italian, and English. They are going to add East Asian, Hindi, Semitic, Arabic, Slavic, and African languages in the near-future. The app works with a smart phone. It is also designed to work offline so it won't incur data charges when used overseas.
This device will hit store shelves in September for the prices of $129-299. The gadget comprises of two earpieces, one for the MLS employee, and one for the MLS member to use, a portable charger, and access to the app, where languages can be downloaded for the earpieces. It can easily be wiped clean with a sanitizing wipe or alcohol on a cotton ball.
I believe this will help open communication doors with our members. We serve a very diverse community, and we would be better able to serve members if we had real-time translators. Some members approach us with a hint of embarrassment because they cannot fluently speak English and let us know what their exact needs are. The expected outcome is for MLS employees to be able to freely converse with all members by limiting language barriers.
Why should we select this project?:
This project should be selected because the cost is minimal, it will allow us to better serve the needs of our MLS members, and this will help MLS employees to feel more confident in answering questions or offering assistance to a non-English speaking member. With the growing number of non-English speakers in our community, I feel it is a necessity to be able to effectively communicate with one another.
Constraints, Limitations, or Dependencies:
The app may need updating from time to time. The smartphone would need to be charged.
If there were multiple non-English speaking members, but only one set available, members may have to wait.
Partner/Supporting Departments:
Information Technology
Public Services
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