Design systems help scale components and patterns across products, but what happens when the solutions being scaled are exclusionary or harmful? Amy explores how teams inadvertently build systems of harm, and what they can do to avoid it.
People
Amy Hupe
Methods
Design SystemsA design system combines reusable interface elements with guidance that helps teams apply them consistently. Establish shared styles, components and patterns for recurring user tasks, document their intended use, and provide libraries that designers and developers can maintain together. Use it when multiple teams or products repeatedly solve similar interface problems. Reuse established elements, review updates to shared libraries, and contribute improvements informed by research. A useful system supports consistent decisions and reduces duplicated work while continuing to evolve.
Inclusive DesignInclusive design identifies who an experience excludes and involves people with different abilities and perspectives in shaping it. Start by examining assumptions and mismatches between a person and the product or environment. Work with people who experience those barriers, then explore solutions that address their needs and may benefit others. Use this approach throughout product and service development, including decisions about interaction, communication and participation. Revisit whose perspectives are missing as the design evolves.