Design Systems for startups

Part 3 How to build a Design System when you’re a startup

In the beginning you’re probably not going to have loads of time to devote to Design Systems. Startups typically run on ‘hair-on-fire’ mode, which means you’ll need to fit this project in where you can. I’d recommend not waiting till you have funding or approval…you could be waiting a long time. Just do small bits as you can. Even if it’s just a couple hours a week or a simple hackweek project, it’ll add up over time. 

Once you’ve had a little success, you can use what you’ve created in a mini roadshow to drum up some more resources. 

Find yourself an engineer accomplice who’s also excited about Design Systems, and willing to work a side project with you. Focus on collecting versus redefining. Remember that your main goal is getting design and engineering on the same page. And lastly, keep it simple and low-fi. Andrew Couldwell in his book, ‘Laying the Foundations’ describes how something as simple as notes jotted down in Google Docs can serve as the beginning to much more sophisticated documentation later on.

In summary, Design Systems are for everyone, not just big, established companies. The key is finding the Design System that’s right for your organization. Plant the seed for systems thinking early on, and you’ll be rewarded with a robust Design System that grows with your company.