Interaktive Mediensysteme MA
Ana Abad Andreu
Design Systems as a Service – Optimizing Collaboration in Multidisciplinary Teams
As the complexity, scale, and pace of digital interface development increase, the need for organized systems that serve both designers and developers has become increasingly relevant. Design systems have emerged as powerful tools within organizations, enabling a common language among various teams and disciplines and ensuring consistency across different projects.
This master’s final thesis introduces the concept of Design Systems as a Service (DSaaS), a human-centred approach focused on supporting the users of design systems, primarily designers and developers. This approach is reflected with the definition of the four main pillars of DSaaS: Enhanced Collaboration, Creativity within a Framework, Embedded Inclusivity and Sustainability over Time.
The theoretical framework is applied in a real-world context through a collaboration with the Augsburg-based digital design agency TEAM23. Working with a cross-disciplinary team of designers and developers, a design system template for client projects is developed, bridging roles and promoting alignment and collaboration. This flexible and adaptable tool —containing designed and coded components, as well as usage documentation— supports in better meeting the diverse demands of the agency’s client base.
The practical part is complemented with an interactive infographic of the DSaaS framework. This visual representation acts as a conceptual map that highlights the interconnectedness of DSaaS elements and principles. In doing so, it bridges the gap between theory and practice, providing a practical tool for understanding the holistic nature of the concept —both within TEAM23 and beyond.
Betreuung:
Prof. Daniel Rothaug Erich Seifert
