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Design system roadmap for small team

Want to create a design system? Here’s a simplified roadmap for solo designers or small teams, from start to finish.

1. Understand Everything About Design Systems

  • What is a design system?
  • Why do you want to create a design system?
  • What problems can you solve with a design system?
  • The concept of atomic design.
  • Terminology in a design system
    • Style guide
    • Component library
    • Pattern
    • Design system governance
    • Design token
    • Branding
    • Design principles
    • Tone & voice
    • Versioning (Semantic versioning)
  • Tools for design system
  • Examples of design system

Don't be afraid to start with the knowledge you already have, a design system is a product that needs to be continuously updated.

2. Gather Stakeholders and Arrange a Meeting

  • Identify Stakeholders: Determine who will collaborate with you and why they need to understand this design system:
    • Designers
    • Researchers
    • Front-End Developers
    • Product Managers
    • Marketing Teams
    • Creative Teams
    • Decision-Makers (VPs, Leaders, or even the CEO)
  • Hold a Meeting: Present your findings about the design system and explain how it can benefit each team or division.
  • Objective of the Meeting: Gain support (buy-in) from all stakeholders to ensure alignment and collaboration. Redefy design system presentation cover Get Free Presentation Template

3. Gather Stakeholders and Arrange a Meeting

  • Plan and Prioritize Your Next Targets
  • Allocate Resources: Can the company assign a designer specifically to work on the design system?
  • Determine Workflow: Will you develop the design system all at once, or implement it gradually?
  • Set Time Commitments: Dedicate regular time to create or maintain your design system (e.g., 30 minutes to 1 hour daily).
  • Create a Schedule: Outline tasks to be completed, set deadlines, and prioritize them accordingly.

Most companies will see a design system as a valuable initiative, but company projects must continue, and the design system might not become a top priority.

4. Build & maintain Your design system

  • Decide on the Approach: Will you create the design system from scratch, or base it on existing designs? If basing it on previous designs, it's recommended to perform a design audit first.
  • Document Thoroughly: Organize your design system documentation carefully. This will simplify the onboarding process for new designers joining your company.