C15: Design Systems for Better UX

Abstract

Design systems represent a critical innovation in digital product development, providing comprehensive frameworks that integrate visual design, interaction principles, and technological specifications into cohesive, scalable solutions. This course offers an in-depth exploration of design systems as strategic tools for creating consistent, efficient, and user-centered digital experiences across diverse platforms and interfaces.

Participants will gain comprehensive insights into the architectural foundations of design systems, learning to develop robust component libraries, establish systematic design methodologies, and implement strategic frameworks that enhance organizational design processes. The curriculum explores critical domains including pattern standardization, interaction design, and the intricate relationships between visual aesthetics and functional user experience.

Through a combination of theoretical analysis and practical application, participants will develop advanced skills in design system creation and implementation. The course demonstrates how design systems transcend traditional design approaches by providing modular, adaptable frameworks that reduce design complexity, improve cross-functional collaboration, and create more intuitive digital interfaces.

Key learning outcomes include understanding design system architecture, developing strategies for component library development, exploring techniques for maintaining design consistency, and leveraging design systems as instruments of technological and user experience innovation. Participants will learn to address critical challenges in digital product development, including interface fragmentation, workflow inefficiencies, and inconsistent user interactions.

Designed for designers, developers, product managers, and design professionals, this course provides a comprehensive approach to understanding and applying design systems as transformative tools in contemporary digital product development. Participants will emerge with practical skills and strategic insights to revolutionize their approach to design and user experience creation.

Course Content

Design systems fundamentally transform user experience by creating a holistic, intentional approach to digital design that goes far beyond aesthetic consistency. They serve as a comprehensive framework that systematically addresses user interaction challenges, cognitive load, and emotional engagement across digital platforms.

Systematic Design Advantages:

• Reduce cognitive load through consistent interaction models
• Create more accessible interfaces by establishing universal design principles
• Enable faster iteration and refinement of user experiences
• Provide a shared language between design, development, and product teams
• Support more inclusive design through standardized accessibility guidelines

Design systems are used by designers, developers, and product teams to manage design at scale through reusable coded components that create a unified experience for users through a common look and feel across channels and platforms.

This course will cover general design system principles and best practices, including, style guides, Component Developers Kit (CDK) component code, pattern libraries and other relevant information. In addition, specific design systems such as Materials Design, Angular Material as well as Design Systems from Brad Frost's Atomic Design.

Participants will gain practical skills through immersive, interactive learning experiences focused on design system development. Exercises will include:

Design Thinking Exercises:

• Participating in case study analysis
• Solving real-world design challenges
• Applying design system principles to specific scenarios

Collaborative Learning Approaches:

• Creating original design system case studies
• Sharing and discussing experiences from participants' professional contexts
• Developing hands-on skills in design system definition and construction

Participants  will move beyond theoretical understanding to practical application, learning how to conceptualize, develop, and implement design systems through direct, experiential learning methods. The interactive format ensures that participants not only understand design system concepts but can actively apply them in their professional environments.