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Courses/Introduction to Design Systems/What is a Design System?/
Exercise #3

The 4 Layers: Foundations & Design Tokens

A well-structured design system can be understood as 4 interconnected layers that build upon one another:

  1. Foundations (Inner Core): Defines how the brand translates into digital form—raw color palettes, typographic families, motion timing, and brand values.
  2. Design Tokens: The contract layer. Tokens translate foundational values into named, platform-agnostic variables (color-brand-primary, space-16). When a token value changes, every consuming platform updates automatically.

Pro Tip: Think of layers as a chain of dependency — small design choices at the core shape every component users see.

Topics

Defining the Idea of a Design System
Recognizing the Key Components
The 4 Layers: Foundations & Design Tokens
The 4 Layers: Core Systems & Components
The 3 Essential Parts: Assets, Documentation, and Processes
Speed, Efficiency, and Brand Coherence
Eliminating Design and Technical Debt
Knowing When NOT to Use One
Connecting People Through a Shared Language
Assessing Readiness for a Design System

From lesson

1

What is a Design System?

Level 1 · Understanding Design Systems

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