About Mickey Kramer
Hi! I’m a designer based in New York City, committed to building more just and joyful futures. Using a human-centered approach, I create better systems, services, places, and experiences.
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Throughout my career, I’ve collaborated with a wide range of partners—from large government agencies to small community groups—to understand complex systems and develop creative solutions. No matter the challenge, my approach always centers on the needs and desires of those most impacted.
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I’m currently a Design Researcher and Strategist at the Lab at OPM, a design studio within the federal government. My latest work has involved making it easier to access DOJ services without a lawyer, improving disaster recovery, and streamlining Veteran benefits.
Skills
UX RESEARCH
I love learning about people, processes, and systems to uncover surprising insights. I use creative methods to gather data, including interviews, diary studies, observation, and mapping. I apply careful analysis to translate data into evidence-backed, actionable findings.
CO-DESIGN & FACILITATION
I bring diverse groups together to collaborate in productive ways. I create activities that invite people who may not consider themselves 'designers' to participate fully in the design process. I manage complex dynamics among groups with sometimes competing interests, ensuring that everyone sees themselves reflected in project outcomes.
PROTOTYPING
I develop and test low- and high-fidelity design prototypes to iron out kinks and deliver polished final versions ready for implementation. I've made prototypes of websites, service interventions, educational resources, plans for public spaces, and more. I collect feedback through user testing that lead me to make small tweaks or discover better solutions altogether.
VISUAL DESIGN
I use graphic design and illustration to tell compelling stories. This covers everything from laying out crystal clear reports, crafting persuasive arguments using diagrams and data visualization, and building empathy with painterly illustrations. I love breaking down complex and nuanced information with visual design to make a lasting impression.
Clients and Collaborators
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn Public Library
Community Preservation Corporation
Knight Foundation
NYC Department of Cultural Affairs
NYC Department of Education
NYC Economic Development Corporation
NYC Mayor's Office of Criminal Justice
NYS Department of Energy
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey​​
SoHo Broadway Iniaitive
US Agency for International Development
US Department of Health and Human Services
US Department of Housing and Urban Development
US Department of Justice
US Department of Labor
US Federal Emergency Management Agency
US Office of Management and Budget
US Office of Personnel Management
US Small Business Administration
US Department of Veterans Affairs