About Me | Notion

My Name is Rachel Smith Jahnz.

As a UX Designer, Strategist, and Researcher based in Minneapolis, I transform complex challenges into customized and intuitive digital experiences that simplify and improve people's lives.

Over the past 8 years, I've crafted and engineered human-centered solutions across nonprofit, government, and healthcare sectors—where every pixel and interaction has the power to impact communities and improve access to essential services.

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HOW I WORK

I drive partner success by turning ideas into impact through…

Curiosity Driven Strategic Thinking and Problem Solving

With a background in Anthropology and diverse industry experience, I'm passionate about understanding how people interact with technology. My curiosity drives my problem-solving approach, helping clients navigate and succeed in today's complex digital landscape.

Comprehensive User Research

Drawing from my anthropological background, I approach research with a unique perspective: seeing technology as a bridge to human achievement. My qualitative methods reveal the human story behind technology use, while rigorous quantitative analysis uncovers actionable patterns beneath surface metrics. This dual approach ensures that design solutions are both human-centered and technically sound.

Research-Based Design Innovation

I transform research insights into practical design solutions. Ideas naturally emerge as I analyze user interviews, survey data, and consumer feedback, ensuring every design decision is rooted in real user needs and behaviors.

A Human-Centered Design Philosophy

My approach extends beyond aesthetics to embrace accessibility, inclusivity, and ethics from the start. I focus on creating meaningful solutions that address user needs while building trust and satisfaction. My commitment to human-centered design ensures sustainable improvements and positive user experiences.

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My Skills

Click here to see the hard and soft skills I use to help partners exceed their goals.

My “magic wands”

And click here to reveal the software and tools I use to make design magic happen.

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When I’m not designing,

I enjoy spending time around the Twin Cities with my spouse, family, and friends, going to restaurants, enjoying local, state, and dog parks, and nature in general.

I love running, biking, doing yoga, designing “junk” journals and bullet journaling/planning, enjoying tea and boba, playing group trivia, going to arcades, and showering our two Chihuahua mixes with love and hugs!

Obligatory pic of our Chihuahua pups

My spouse and I riding the Sky Rider ride above the crowds at the Minnesota State Fair in early September 2024!

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Want to Work with Me?

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** [Schedule a Session with Me](<https://calendar.app.google/V1XvTNrfXL7CQEUA9>)**

 **[Send Me an Email](<mailto:[email protected]>)**