📝 Articles
Can components conform to WCAG?
Hidde challenges the notion that UI components can conform to WCAG standards, emphasising that conformance applies only to full web pages. They suggest that while components can be designed with accessibility in mind, claiming their conformance risks misleading users about the complexities of accessibility, which is a continuous process requiring context, customisability, and proper integration within products.
A New Way to Audit Design System Usage
Tony discusses a novel approach to auditing Design System usage by visually highlighting components on application pages. They argue that this method could provide a tangible measure of adoption but also enhances communication with stakeholders about the value of Design Systems.
What's the European Accessibility Act got to do with my design system?
Geri outlines the European Accessibility Act (EAA), which will require us to meet the WCAG 2.1 AA standard to ensure accessibility for users with disabilities. She emphasises that organisations should view the EAA as an opportunity to enhance usability and reach a wider audience, integrating accessibility into their design practices.
Inside the process of icon system unification
Andrei discusses HP's efforts to unify its iconography within the Veneer design system. They highlight the importance of auditing existing icons, establishing a unified style, defining sizes for various uses, and creating principles that are intuitive, readable, consistent, and personable.
👀 Interesting Reads
Design + Code Microcopy Style Guide
Victor emphasises the need for a unified microcopy style guide to enhance clarity and user trust among designers, writers, and developers. Key principles include clarity, context, and actionability.
Getting variables into zeroheight and setting up automation
Luke explains how to sync Figma variables into zeroheight and automate design token updates. They emphasize using the zeroheight – Variables Sync plugin for initial setup and maintaining effective communication between design and development teams for seamless integration.
Design System Deviation is a Signal
In a recap of recent episode of The Question, Ben highlights the importance of tracking design system deviations with guest Adrianne Daley, noting that many teams overlook this, revealing unmet needs. They stress that deviations should be seen as opportunities for improvement rather than reasons for fear.
🖤 Design Systems
Kelp - A UI library, powered by modern CSS and Web Components.
I've been following Chris' almost daily updates as they've worked their way through building this component library, it's been interesting to read through their thoughts on decisions made. Well, Chris has pushed the project - Kelp - to it's first v1, stable release