Brad Frost discusses the challenges of design systems at Big Medium and the future of DS. Topics include: building a universal design system, using AI in design systems, succeeding in an AI world, high leverage activities for DS designers, and communication between designers and engineers.
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Quick takeaways
The future of design systems involves building a universal system for broad applicability.
AI can enhance design systems by automating tasks and allowing designers to focus on high-level work.
Effective collaboration between designers and engineers is crucial for successful design system development.
Deep dives
The Shifting Role of Design Systems
The podcast explores how the role of design systems is evolving, emphasizing the need for designers to focus on strategic architectural support services rather than merely creating components. Brad Frost discusses the direction design systems are heading in, highlighting the importance of preparing for the future and adapting to emerging design practices. Frost describes the challenges his agency, Big Medium, tackles in helping organizations design at scale, emphasizing the critical role of teaching teams to fish and fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Balancing Speed and Quality in Design Systems
The episode delves into the concept of pace layers in design systems, where different elements need to move at varying speeds to maintain efficiency and quality. Design systems should provide sturdy front-end infrastructure that evolves slowly, allowing faster-paced product layers to operate efficiently. Frost discusses the importance of finding the balance between consistency and speed, ensuring that design systems support and enhance the overall product development process.
The Potential of AI in Design Systems
Brad Frost shares insights on how AI can revolutionize design systems by automating tasks like component code creation and documentation generation. AI can significantly boost the efficiency of design system designers, allowing them to focus on higher-level tasks like curation, problem-solving, and human-centered design. Frost highlights the potential for AI to generate multiple design iterations and enhance collaboration between designers and developers, paving the way for more innovative and efficient design processes.
Building Effective Communication Bridges with Engineers
Frost emphasizes the importance of designers and engineers collaborating effectively by bridging the communication gap and aligning on key terminology and concepts. He encourages designers to approach developers with humility and a willingness to learn, fostering better understanding and cooperation. By leveraging tools like Figma and embracing technical concepts, designers can enhance their collaboration with developers and facilitate smoother workflows in design system development.
The 40th Birthday Benefit Concert
Brad Frost shares details about his upcoming benefit concert on August 17th, featuring a diverse lineup of talented musicians from his network. The concert will be a one-night-only supergroup performance involving over 40 musicians across various genres, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. The event aims to benefit mental health nonprofit organizations and a spinal cord injury rehabilitation center, adding a charitable component to the celebration.
If you’ve dabbled in design systems then you’re no doubt familiar with Brad Frost and atomic design. He’s laid the foundation for design systems teams around the world. So in this discussion we talk about the types of challenges he faces at Big Medium and how he’s envisioning the future of design systems:
Why we should build a universal design system
How Brad is using AI to elevate design systems
How design systems designers can succeed in an AI world
The highest leverage activities for DS designers to do
How designers can communicate better with engineers
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