Figma

How to manage multiple design systems in Figma?

Explore smart ways to handle various design systems in Figma. Find out top methods and tools to make your design process smoother and teamwork more effective.

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Overview

Managing several design systems in Figma calls for meticulous planning and teamwork. It's all about sorting files and elements, laying out straightforward rules for uniformity, and encouraging team collaboration. Good naming habits, detailed documentation, and shared component libraries make integration and upkeep across different projects a breeze. Keeping up with Figma's new features and using plugins can make the management process even smoother. The following sections will delve into specific steps and best practices for handling multiple design systems effectively in a constantly evolving design landscape.

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How to manage multiple design systems in Figma?

Step 1: Create Separate Libraries for Each Design System

Alright, first things first. You want to keep each design system in its own Figma library. This way, everything stays neat and tidy. Head over to the Figma file you want, then go to Assets > Team Library and publish it as a library. Easy peasy.

Step 2: Structure Components Logically

Now, within each library, organize your components into logical categories. Think buttons, forms, navigation, and so on. Stick to consistent naming conventions across all your design systems. This makes it super easy for everyone to find what they need.

Step 3: Maintain Consistent Naming Conventions

Speaking of naming conventions, keep them consistent. Use something like [component type]/[variant]. This way, everyone on the team knows exactly what they're looking at. It’s like having a universal language for your components.

Step 4: Enable and Manage Library Syncing

Next up, sync the libraries you need to your working files. Click on the Assets tab, then Team Library, and enable the design system libraries you need. This ensures all the components from different design systems are right there in your project.

Step 5: Implement Usage Rules

Define some rules for when and how to use each design system. Document these rules so everyone knows which system to use in different situations. This helps keep things consistent and reduces any confusion.

Step 6: Use Shared Styles

Create and manage shared styles like colors, text styles, and effects within each design system library. Shared styles ensure that your UI looks consistent across different components and systems. It’s like having a matching outfit for your UI elements.

Step 7: Regularly Update Libraries

Keep your design system libraries up to date. Add new components, refine the existing ones, and get rid of outdated elements. Make sure to communicate any changes to the team so everyone’s on the same page.

Step 8: Version Control

Implement version control for each design system. Label each update version in the library settings and keep a changelog. This way, you can manage updates and changes effectively without losing track of anything.

Step 9: Collaborate and Get Feedback

Encourage your team to collaborate and give feedback regularly. Create a feedback loop where designers can suggest improvements or point out issues within the design systems. It’s all about teamwork!

Step 10: Educate and Train the Team

Provide training sessions and resources about the different design systems and how to use them. This ensures everyone is on the same page and can use the systems effectively. Maybe even create a comprehensive guide or handbook.

Step 11: Utilize Plugins and Tools

Lastly, make use of Figma plugins and tools to streamline the management of multiple design systems. Plugins like "Design System Organizer" can help you maintain and organize components efficiently.

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