design systems
CREATiNG USABLE SYSTEMS
Exploring how to structure a design system that empowers a company, not just designers.
Focus: Ensuring product cohesion
Impact: A scalable system with documentation and guidance that enabled anyone to make a recommendation with confidence that the product will remain cohesive
Context
This case study explores how I approached design systems across two very different environments. First by introducing structure where there was little in place, and later by improving how an existing system was understood and used within a product team.
Problem
At FarmIQ, there was no clear design system in place. Components, patterns, and files lacked consistency, which made it difficult to design efficiently and collaborate with engineers.
At Trade Me, a design system already existed, but with lack of maintenance became increasingly difficult to navigate and apply. Components existed, but clarity and usability varied, making it harder for teams to use the system confidently in day-to-day work.
Why this mattered
Without clear structure and shared patterns, design work becomes slower, more inconsistent, and harder to maintain.
Through this work, it became clear that having a design system in place isn't enough. If it isn't easy to understand and apply, it won't be used effectively by the people it's meant to support.
Approach
At FarmIQ, I focused on introducing structure by creating a design library in Figma, organising components, and improving file clarity to support more consistent design and smoother handoff.
At Trade Me, I built on these learnings by focusing not just on the components themselves, but on how they were used in practice. My focus was on simplifying, organising, and aligning components with real product needs, making the system easier for designers and engineers to navigate and apply.
Solution
Creating structure and consistency
I introduced and refined component libraries, improved file organisation, and established clearer patterns to support more consistent design work.
Making the system easier to use
I focused on simplifying components, improving naming conventions, and writing clear usage guidance.
Outcome & impact
Designers and engineers were able to work more efficiently, with clearer patterns, less ambiguity, and more confidence in the decisions they were making.
key takeaway
A design system is only as effective as it is usable. The real impact comes from making systems clear, practical, and easy to adopt in everyday work.