On Theme: Design Systems in Depth But "design systems as infrastructure" is boring, with Sam Anderson — #16
May 5, 2025
Sam Anderson, Director of the Intuit Design System, discusses the evolution of design systems in the context of AI’s rapid advancement. He emphasizes viewing design systems as essential infrastructure for business success and shares insights on the importance of design patterns. Anderson dispels fears surrounding AI, suggesting it will enhance the value of design professionals instead of replacing them. The conversation also touches on bridging the gap between design and code and embracing change with optimism, highlighting the need for creativity in challenging times.
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Sam's Design System Journey
- Sam Anderson's design system journey started by creating the first coded system for Cisco WebEx.
- He then re-architected USAA's mature system and currently integrates multi-brand systems at Intuit amid AI transformation.
Design Systems as Infrastructure
- Thinking of design systems as infrastructure helps elevate their importance within companies.
- This framing secures better mindshare and resources as they become essential building blocks for product delivery.
Embrace Infrastructure Value
- Designers should empathize with infrastructure teams and value their work as mission critical.
- Design systems must ensure fast, performant experiences, being part of critical infrastructure conversations.