Unveiling the Design Systems Awards Finalists!

Last summer, we embarked on a journey to celebrate and recognize the exceptional work the community is doing in the design systems landscape. Little did we know that this inaugural edition of the Design Systems Awards competition would unleash a wave of creativity and innovation like never before. With over 180+ applications pouring in, it’s safe to say that the design systems community brought their A-game, and we couldn’t be more grateful!

A massive thank you!

Before diving into the finalist reveal, we want to thank everyone who took the time and effort to submit their work. Your involvement, dedication, and sheer enthusiasm for putting your application together shows how the design systems community is so extraordinary.

We were awestruck by the design system landscape’s diversity and outstanding quality. It’s a testament to the design system community’s immense talent and passion, filling us with immense pride to be part of it.

The Finalists

Now, without further ado, we’re excited to introduce the finalists!

In this competition, we have two spotlight sections: Design Systems and Community. Each section includes four categories. For each category, we narrowed it down to four finalists who are now in the running to be awarded winners by the end of the year.

Are you ready to know the finalists of this first and unique Design Systems Awards competition? Let’s go! 

Design Systems

Best Documentation

This category recognizes design systems that excel in providing clear and comprehensive documentation. These systems go above and beyond in guiding designers, developers, and stakeholders through the usage and implementation of their design principles, components, and guidelines.

• Eventbrite
• Pinterest
• Telkom Indonesia
• Twilio

Best Adoption

The Best Adoption category acknowledges design systems that have successfully achieved widespread implementation and integration across various projects and teams. These systems demonstrate exceptional adaptability, ease of adoption, and seamless integration into existing workflows, resulting in improved design consistency and efficiency.

• IFS
• MGM Resorts International
• Outdoorsy
• Wise

Best Governance

This category honors design systems that have implemented robust governance practices to ensure the long-term sustainability and evolution of their design assets. These systems exhibit effective decision-making processes, version control mechanisms, and maintenance strategies that facilitate continuous improvement and foster collaboration across teams.

• Doctolib
• Eptura
• Schneider Electric
• Société Générale

Best Collaboration

The Best Collaboration category celebrates design systems that encourage cross-functional collaboration, enabling designers, developers, and stakeholders to work harmoniously towards shared design goals. These systems embrace collaboration tools, communication channels, and inclusive practices that foster effective teamwork and foster innovation.

• ADT
• Pinterest
• Thales
• Workhuman

Community

Best Article

The Best Article category acknowledges exceptional written content that contributes valuable insights, knowledge, and thought leadership to the design system community. These articles explore various aspects of design systems, share best practices, and inspire professionals to push the boundaries of design and development.

• How Pinterest’s design systems team measures adoption
• How to name design tokens in a Design System
• Measuring the value of design systems
• Thoughts to consider when pursuing a career in design systems

Best Talk

This category recognizes captivating and informative talks delivered by industry experts that shed light on design system strategies, implementation challenges, and innovative approaches. These talks inspire and educate audiences, showcasing successful case studies, practical tips, and visionary thinking.

• Design systems handled by you
• Establishing early evangelists: from sentiment gathering to strategic roadmapping
• Making Pinterest more inclusive through design systems
• Multidimensional Design Systems

Best Plugin

The Best Plugin category recognizes the valuable contributions of those who have created exceptional plugins for design system tools that enhance the functionality and efficiency of design systems. From automated workflows to seamless integrations, these plugins demonstrate innovation and provide tangible benefits that propel the evolution and effectiveness of design systems.

• EightShapes Specs
• OxyScan
• Tokens Studio
• Variables Converter

Community Champion

The Community Champion category celebrates individuals or teams that have made significant contributions to the design system community. These champions actively engage with the community, share their expertise, support others in their design system endeavors, and foster a collaborative and inclusive environment.

• Audrey Hacq
• Luis Klefsjo
• Nate Baldwin
• Ruben Duarte

What’s next?

Now that we have our finalists, it’s time to choose the winners!

To achieve this and decide who will be the winner in each category, we’re proud to have an exceptional panel of judges to review each finalist:

1. Jina Anne – Design Systems Advocate, Organizer of Clarity
2. Ben Callahan – Founder, Sparkbox
3. Amy Hupe – Content Design and Design Systems Consultant
4. Dan Mall – Founder, Design Systems University
5. Sarrah Vesselov –  Director of Design, Honeycomb
6. Brad Frost – Design System Consultant
7. Geri Reid – Design Systems & Accessibility Consultant
8. Sil Bormueller – Founder, Into Design Systems Conference
9. Michelle Chin – Design Advocate, zeroheight

But you also have a part to play! We’ll open up the voting very soon so that you can select your choices. Stay tuned for more information on how to vote very soon 😉

Oh, and one more thing, we’ll gather in London to announce the final winners and hand them their well-deserved awards on the 30th of November. It’s going to be an unforgettable night of celebration, networking, and inspiration. We’ll livestream this event so everyone can join this party. 

Stay up-to-date with upcoming Design Systems Awards news by following us on our Twitter/X and Instagram!