What are common mistakes to avoid when creating a design system?
Common design system pitfalls include:
Doing too much too soon: Start small—don’t try to define everything upfront.
Poor documentation: Great components need clear usage guidelines to be effective.
Lack of collaboration: Involve both designers and developers early to ensure adoption and usability.
Outdated systems: Keep your design system current as your product evolves, or people will stop using it.
Weak buy-in: Get leadership support and set the expectation that teams use the system.
Overly rigid rules: Allow flexibility when needed—don’t let consistency kill creativity.
Treat your design system as a living tool, not a fixed rulebook. Regular updates, team input, and clarity are key to long-term success.