Content
- What is a design system?
- Why is a design system needed?
- Which companies need design systems?
- What does a design system consist of?
What is a design system?
A design system is a comprehensive platform that accumulates all the resources and tools necessary for creating interfaces and web pages. These systems are developed by companies for both internal use and external users. In the first case, such databases serve to simplify the work of employees, as is the case with "Yandex," where they help maintain consistency across various company services.
In the second case, design systems are created for developers who plan to integrate their applications into existing platforms, such as the App Store. This requires strict adherence to established standards, as seen in the case of Apple. Additionally, many design systems include educational materials that help developers acquire the necessary skills. For example, Google's Material Design system offers a variety of guides and tutorials.
Why is a design system needed?
A design system plays a crucial role in the work of users, company employees, and the business as a whole. Let's consider its advantages from different perspectives:
For Users
- Intuitive interfaces: By using unified elements, users can easily adapt to new products from the company.
- Modern solutions: Rapid updates to interfaces according to the latest trends improve overall user response.
- Optimization of user experience: By freeing up designers' and developers' time from routine tasks, the system allows them to focus on enhancing UX.
For Developers and Designers
- Accelerated work: The ability to use ready-made elements significantly reduces development time.
- Resolution of disputes: All standards and rules are collected in one place, minimizing lengthy discussions.
- Consolidation of resources: Access to all necessary elements and guidelines in one location saves time.
- Simplification of hypothesis testing: Quick prototyping of interfaces using ready-made elements.
For Businesses
- Increased brand recognition: Consistency in products creates a unique company image.
- Conveying brand philosophy: The design system reflects the values of the business, aiding in image formation.
- Improvement of product quality: Automation of development processes reduces the likelihood of errors.
- Accelerated onboarding of new employees: Access to the system allows newcomers to quickly learn how to use various elements.
- Optimization of processes: Simplification of communication and reduction of development stages.
Which companies need design systems?
Creating a design system is an expensive and complex process that requires a specialized team. For instance, in "Alfa-Bank," this area has been actively developing since 2017, and its leader considers the system a full-fledged product. The more teams and products a company has, the more relevant the need for a design system becomes. In small startups, where only a few designers and developers work, it can be managed without one, but in large organizations, it significantly speeds up approval and development processes.
In situations where a company has multiple products, the use of several design systems may be required. For example, "Sber" has different systems for developing smart applications and mobile platforms.
What does a design system consist of?
A design system includes several key components:
- Information sections: The homepage typically contains an overview of the system's capabilities, the latest news, and educational materials.
- Components: Basic interface elements, such as buttons and input fields, are presented in both visual and code formats.
- Patterns: Templates that combine components to simplify development, such as registration forms.
- Guidelines: Detailed instructions for using all components and design rules that help maintain a unified style.
These parts are fundamental in any design system, but companies may add additional materials, such as editing policies and brand books. For example, in Mail.ru's system called Paradigm, the guidelines detail even the color palettes, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach in design.