My Failed Design System at Torry Harris
Torry Harris's Center of Excellence (CoE) offers a diverse range of products and services, each utilizing different technologies and frameworks. While these products can function independently, they are also designed to seamlessly integrate with each other. To achieve this, a design system was implemented, based on IBM's carbon design system. This allowed for the standardization and optimization of common workflows, resulting in a more efficient product development process.
As part of this initiative, a naming convention and token system were developed to ensure consistency across all products. The documentation team played a vital role in creating an internal website that provided comprehensive information about the design system, making it easily accessible to all members of the organization.
Overall, the implementation of this design system has streamlined the development process and facilitated better collaboration across different teams.
After nearly six months, I made the difficult decision to discontinue the system due to my inability to sustain its functionality. The system was complex, compounded by the fact that various technologies required multiple customizations. While it was a challenging choice, it provided me with valuable lessons and experiences.Throughout the process, I gained a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in managing a complex system with diverse technologies. Although I was not able to maintain the system, I learned valuable lessons about perseverance, adaptability, and resourcefulness.While it was a tough decision to pull the plug, I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow from the experience.