About Me
Hello, I’m Raz Miah, a human-centric designer currently working at the Department of Human Services within the NSW Government. With a background in human behavior and psychology, my design journey began when I realized the transformative power of technology in shaping better lives for all. As a research-based practitioner, I believe that great design comes from understanding not just technology, but people, their cultures, and their needs.
My Journey
I completed an undergraduate degree in human behavior and psychology, which laid the foundation for my transition into design. Over time, I became fascinated by how design can solve problems in a way that enhances the everyday lives of people. My design work is deeply informed by research, empathy, and a belief in the profound impact that well-crafted digital experiences can have on communities and individuals alike.
Living in Sydney, Dubai, and Bangladesh has given me the opportunity to experience diverse cultures and environments, each contributing to my holistic approach to problem-solving. While in Dubai, I worked on several United Nations projects as a field researcher, where I learned the value of data-driven insights and the importance of building solutions that are inclusive and culturally relevant. These experiences have shaped my approach to designing in both the public and private sectors.
Public & Private Sector Experience
I have had the privilege of working in both public and private sector design projects, which has provided me with a well-rounded skill set. In the public sector, I’ve focused on creating inclusive digital products that meet government standards while addressing real-world user needs. My current role at the Department of Human Services involves crafting accessible and functional solutions for diverse users across a variety of platforms.
On the other hand, my experience in the private sector has given me the opportunity to work on commercial products where business goals and user experience must come together seamlessly. I’ve had the chance to design everything from consumer-facing apps to enterprise software, always with a focus on making the user journey as simple and intuitive as possible.
Design Philosophy
At my core, I believe in the power of human-centered design—the idea that design should focus on people, their needs, and their behaviors. I approach every project with a research-driven mindset, working closely with users to understand their goals, frustrations, and pain points. I believe in crafting designs that are not only functional but also beautiful, accessible, and inviting.
Accessibility is a key principle in all my work, and I ensure that I adhere to the highest standards, including WCAG guidelines, to make sure that the digital experiences I create are usable by everyone, regardless of ability. I also set functional accessibility requirements and use Agile user stories and acceptance criteria to ensure that the final product truly meets the needs of the user.
Language & Cultural Insights
In addition to my professional experience, I’m passionate about linguistics and cultural studies. Living in different parts of the world has allowed me to learn languages such as Japanese and Hindi, and gain a deep understanding of cultural nuances that influence how people interact with technology. This cultural insight has been invaluable in shaping inclusive, thoughtful designs that resonate with diverse audiences.
Why I Design
I truly believe that well-designed digital products have the potential to transform the lives of individuals and communities. My mission is to create products that are not only functional and accessible but also pleasing to the eye, ensuring a delightful user experience that adds value to people’s lives. I’m always excited about tackling new challenges, learning, and growing as a designer, and I’m committed to creating solutions that make a real difference.
Please feel free to explore my recent work and get in touch if you’d like to collaborate or discuss how we can create meaningful digital experiences together.