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UX Short: Design systems are an essential skill

Don’t forget to include this essential example in your portfolio

What is a design system?

A design system is a set guideline for UI and visual design created by a company that serves as a guiding light in the darkness — it captures the company’s ethos, how the company wants to present itself, and how the company wants the user to feel while they are interacting with their products.

The design system is a vessel that holds so much about a company.

Specifications outlined in design systems can include:

• UX writing specs, such as the voice of the company. What are the company’s main values?
• The tone of the company. How does the company speak to users when during successful or failed interactions?
• The color palette
• The font specifications
• The components: how does this company treat pop-ups? Where is the confirm button located? How much padding?
• What type of components does the company prefer? Do they prefer using certain components instead of others to serve the same purpose?

Why is showing your skills in design systems so important?