Summary
Defining a design system that’s adaptable, modular and more importantly, future proof, is a monumental task. With several years of contributing to their design system and software suite, Mitchell Bernstein, AI Design Lead, will go through IBM’s experience on this topic, sharing key takeaways about their evolving Carbon Design System. Mitchell will also dive into details on how to adapt any design system to complex, AI-powered software with the help of Sketch.
Key Insights
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Design systems serve as languages of implementation, evolving over time much like human languages.
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Collaboration across different roles (design, product management, development) is critical for success in creating effective design systems.
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The Carbon Design System at IBM is one of the largest and most actively evolving components within their ecosystem.
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Patterns in design should be created based on user needs, consistency, reproducibility, and flexibility.
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Embracing a bit of chaos and experimentation can lead to innovation in design systems.
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Education around new technologies like AI is crucial for designers who need to implement these tools effectively.
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Observing and reflecting are key steps in the iterative design process, allowing teams to empathize with users.
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Design systems must adapt to user feedback and new technological paradigms to remain relevant.
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Maintaining a governance structure helps settle chaos in large design efforts.
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Using the right tools, like Sketch, enhances communication and collaboration across design teams.
Notable Quotes
"Design systems are the language of implementation."
"Every decision is kind of like a puzzle piece; when you put them together, you have a system."
"You have to admit that we don’t know everything; we have to ask each other and ask our users so we can learn together."
"Carbon is just the starting point for what can be imagined."
"When you get stuck, fall back to the loop: observe, reflect, and make."
"Discomfort and growth cannot coexist."
"Design systems are always evolving; they’re like a language."
"We must not be stopped by a lack of confidence; prototype our ideas with real people."
"You need to settle the chaos and make sure that there are set goals and priorities within the system."
"The product is the reflection of how well teams communicate."
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