Context and Problem
I need to have a source of truth for design decisions, and a way to ensure a better and consistent quality of frontend components and UI in general. I also want to make sure that any improvements I make are reflected across the sites that use these components. Design systems are made for this.
Considered Options
- Do not do a design system and work in priority on other aspects (graphics library, indiewebsite)
- Do a design system and work on other subjects in parallel
Decision
I think I can push for the stretch and try to implement a (tiny) design system. I will build the gl lib and the indiewebsite in parallel. The design system will make my job easier in the long run: the project is small enough to get a solid start now.
Given the scale of this project I’ll borrow from this source to get me started:
Adapted from : InVision Guide - Building an MVP Design System
Design System Overview
| UI Library | Users | Controls |
|---|---|---|
| Foundations | Designers | Guidelines |
| Blocks | Engineers | Governance |
| Layouts |
UI Library
| Foundations | Layouts | Blocks |
|---|---|---|
| Colors | Burrito | Buttons |
| Typography | Reveal | Cards |
| Icons (assets) | Icon | Forms |
| Spacing | Sidebar | Graphics |
| Motion | Stack | Media |
| Layers | Switcher | Navs |
| … | … | (Tables) |
| … | … | … |
🚧 Users
| Design Assets | Engineering Assets |
|---|---|
| Design files | APIs |
| Libraries | Components |
| Styles | Tokens |
🚧 Controls
| Guidelines | Governance |
|---|---|
| Accessibility | Communication |
| Examples | Versions |
| Usage | Measurement |
| Patterns | Contribution |
| Principles | Incentives |
| Voice & Tone | Reviews |