Design Principles
Design Processes
Fundamental concepts and guidelines that inform design decisions and contribute to the overall success of a project. Design principles encompass overarching themes such as simplicity, clarity, and user-centricity, guiding designers in making informed decisions that align with project goals and user expectations.
In practice
Establish fundamental rules and philosophies that guide design decisions. Design principles are relevant at all stages of the design process, providing a framework for decision-making. Their importance lies in shaping the overall design philosophy, fostering consistency, and ensuring that design decisions align with broader goals and values. Design principles serve as a foundation for creating designs that are not only visually appealing but also aligned with the underlying principles and objectives of a project or brand.
Questions
What is Design Principles?
Design principles are the short, agreed statements a team uses to make decisions when the answer is not obvious.
Why do you use Design Principles?
They resolve arguments without escalation. A good principle tells you what to do when two reasonable options conflict.
How do you use/apply Design Principles?
Write few of them, make each one take a side, and test them against real past decisions. A principle nobody could disagree with is decoration.
When do you use Design Principles?
At the start of a product or team, and revisited when they stop being used.
Who uses Design Principles?
Design leads, agreed with the whole team.
