Putting the user at the centre of your design system

Abstract

Design systems are often seen as mere products, promising efficiency and cost savings. However, the key to their success lies in understanding the needs of the users who interact with them. In this talk, we’ll share our experience collaborating with a leading UK university to reinvent and relaunch their multi-product design system through a human-first approach.

We’ll discuss effective strategies for co-designing and continuously testing with system users to enhance product adoption, as well as ways to engage internal stakeholders to foster awareness and involvement. Attendees will gain insights into designing a design system that truly serves its users, the importance of a long-term perspective, and tips for creating a shared product vision. We’ll also highlight the need for ongoing creativity within design systems. Join us to explore how to make your design system a valuable resource for everyone involved.

About

Alex Edwards | Design Strategist

Alex focuses on simplifying design to meet user needs effectively. With a background in visual design, typography, and front-end development, she brings a well-rounded perspective to her work. After studying design at the University of Reading, Alex started her career as a UX designer in a digital agency, where she eventually led a team. Now at Clearleft, she integrates her design skills with insights from client services, balancing business goals with user needs. Her attention to detail and collaborative approach inform her work in creating meaningful user experiences.

Lucy Blackwell | Head of UX, Research and Design

Lucy joined the University of the Arts London earlier this year, to form and lead the UX, Research and Design team at UAL with a focus on improving the student experience. Hugely passionate about the education sector, Lucy has a long history leading the UX and design of learning products from BBC Learning, to the online learning platform FutureLearn, to the community-driven Wikipedia. She is well versed in using systems thinking to create change in complex environments, whilst empowering teams to do their best work.