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Aussie Exchange

Project Type:

Localization Web Application
5/20/25
GitHub: [Link]

Aussie Exchange is a Java-Swing web application that pairs older adults in Japan with friendly Australian visitors for casual conversation, cultural sharing, or guided experiences. The goal: ease loneliness in Japan’s aging population while giving tourists a richer, people-first way to explore the country.

DEMO:

My Roles

Java-Swing Developer

- Implemented language-switching, authentication, and accessibility tweaks
- Refactored UI components after each round of user testing

Project Manager

- Set weekly milestones and kept the team of four on schedule
- Facilitated stand-ups & retros to maintain a healthy team dynamic

Documentation Lead

- Authored the localization summary, usability-test reports & final slide deck
- Ensured all deliverables met course and ISLO standards

The Problem

  • Social Isolation: Japan has the world’s fastest-aging population; single-person households and reported loneliness are rising.

  • Tourism Opportunity: Australian travel to Japan has grown 5× since 2010. We saw potential to connect these two trends for mutual benefit.

The Solution

  • Profile Browsing – Japanese users scroll a card-style list of vetted Aussies.

  • Secure Matching – Requests are encrypted; both sides approve before any contact.

  • Language Support – One-click language swap (日本語 / English); all labels auto-localize.

  • Accessibility First – High-contrast palette, scalable fonts, keyboard-navigable layout.

Cultural Localization Approach

We wanted to build more than just a translated app, our goal was to make Aussie Exchange feel natural and intuitive for Japanese users.

Research-First Process

Started with academic and online research to understand social issues in Japan (like loneliness among older adults) and cultural norms around design, privacy, and interaction.

Interviews with Cultural Experts

We talked with Japanese users and cultural experts to ensure our concepts addressed a real need, not just what sounded good to us.

Usability Testing:

Round 1

Our first prototype (Figma) focused on basic flow and structure. Feedback helped us fix spacing, labeling, and other quality-of-life issues.

Results

Usability Testing:

Round 2

The second prototype was built in Java Swing with full functionality. We tested it with four Japanese users (either native or fluent). Their insights changed everything.

JP Font Matters

Default Java fonts appeared Chinese. We switched to MS Mincho, a Japanese-friendly font, for all localized screens based on direct user feedback.

Replacing Commercial Imagery

Our original login screen used a Mt. Fuji photo that felt too touristy. We replaced it with friendly, human-centered visuals to match the app’s purpose.

Improved Interaction

Users tried clicking on flag icons to change languages, but only the small button below worked. We made the whole flag clickable for easier use.

Sorting Differences

Unlike U.S. apps like Amazon, Japanese users use fewer sorting filters. We simplified our browsing experience based on that preference.

Tech Stack

Frontend & Backend:

Java 17 + Swing

Authentication System:

Custom-built using CSV files and secure password hashing

Version Control:

GitHub Classroom

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MagRep - Improving Working Out Through Data

Project type

Engineering Project

Date

Feb. 2025

Location

Terre Haute

MagRep is a modular device designed for cable weight machines that streamlines workout tracking in the gym. It uses a custom Raspberry Pi interface and sensors, including a time-of-flight sensor, infrared sensors, and a laser sensor, to accurately capture rep counts and weight measurements. In practice, gym users attach MagRep to a machine, then start their workout by tapping their phone or scanning an ID. The device automatically logs every exercise, providing real-time data that appears on an intuitive interface. This detailed feedback allows users to monitor progress, adjust their workouts, and share performance data with trainers, while gym managers gain reliable insights for equipment scheduling and overall facility improvements.
As team lead, I managed the entire project workflow by resolving conflicts, coordinating with mentors and technical experts, and ensuring team members met deadlines. I played a key role in developing the cabling model, selecting electrical sensors, and leading customer validation, usability testing, and documentation efforts. My contributions ensured that MagRep not only meets rigorous performance standards but also directly addresses the practical needs of gym users and fitness professionals.
(Explore more about the project by clicking on pictures)
Video: https://youtu.be/CgempMNQrSo?si=iZkkban2Y2A2Jphd

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