Design Systems

What are Design Systems?

Design Systems are a set of reusable components and guidelines to help designers and developers create and maintain a consistent experience across web pages, software applications, digital products, and devices. These components make up a “library” of fonts and colors that have standardized design principles.

How do Design Systems work?

A design system is built by a design team to create consistent answers and solutions to common digital design questions around design elements such as font size and use, approved color palettes, image and logo placements, and typography. This library acts as best practices and a shared language for developers, designers, writers, and product managers. A design system typically includes design components, templates and patterns, documentation and guidelines, coding, and a governance structure overseeing the entire system.

What are the business benefits of Design Systems?

• Creates a polished brand identity by requiring multiple teams to follow and maintain a consistent and standardized design process that keeps elements organized and unified
• Supports collaboration by providing a shared design language that brings designers and developers to work together toward a common goal
• Enhances design and development speed by reducing decisions and creating more efficient workflows
• Establishes greater quality control over design and development elements by simplifying the design process and flagging inconsistencies early
• Reduces costs by creating a uniform process that keeps projects moving quickly without having to reorganize or rebuild components