“From Design to Development: A 7-Step Guide for Successful Handover”
Handing over the design to a developer can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, with proper preparation and communication, it can be a smooth and efficient process that results in a high-quality end product. This article outlines the steps to take when handing over the design to a developer, from organizing design assets to documenting the handover process.
Step 1: Organize Design Assets
Organizing design assets refers to the process of gathering all the design files and putting them in an organized, easily accessible folder structure. This includes all relevant design files, such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe Xd, etc. Proper organization of design assets helps ensure that the developer can quickly find what they need and ensures that the design is implemented correctly. Labeling files clearly and organizing them in a logical manner is key to efficient design asset organization.
Step 2: Provide Design Specifications
To provide design specifications to a developer using Figma’s Inspect feature, select the design element you want to inspect. The Inspect panel will appear showing the relevant design specs such as colors, typography, spacing, and measurements. Copy the specifications from the panel and share them with the developer. This helps ensure a successful handover of design assets by providing precise and detailed specifications for accurate implementation of the design. Inspect in Figma is a convenient and efficient way to document and communicate design specs with the development team.
Step 3: Create a Style Guide
A comprehensive style guide is a valuable tool when handing over the design to a developer. This guide should cover the overall design, including typography, colors, icons, and any other design elements. A style guide can be in the form of a document, website, or presentation, and should be easy to understand and follow.
Step 4: Provide a Detailed Explanation of Interactions
If the design includes interactive elements, such as buttons, sliders, and drop-down menus, it is important to provide a detailed explanation of how they should behave. This includes information on any animations or transitions, as well as how the interactions should respond to user inputs. A detailed explanation of interactions helps the developer understand the intended user experience and ensures that the final product meets the design requirements.
Step 5: Test the Design
Before handing over the design to the developer, it is important to test the design to ensure that it is functional and bug-free. This can be done by conducting a thorough review of the design and making any necessary changes. Additionally, you may want to perform user testing to ensure that the design meets the needs of the target audience.
Step 6: Communicate with the Developer
Communication is key when handing over the design to a developer. Schedule a meeting or call with the developer to discuss the design and answer any questions they may have. This will help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the design is implemented correctly.
Step 7: Document the Handover Process
Documenting the handover process is important for future reference and to ensure that everyone is on the same page. This includes all design assets, specifications, and style guides, as well as any notes from the communication with the developer. This documentation should be stored in a shared location that is easily accessible to all members of the design and development teams.
In conclusion
Handing over a design to a developer can be a complex process, but with proper preparation and communication, it can be a smooth and efficient process. By following these steps, you can ensure that the design is implemented correctly and that the final product meets the design requirements. By organizing design assets, providing design specifications, creating a style guide, providing a detailed explanation of interactions, testing the design, communicating with the developer, and documenting the handover process, you can make the handover process a success.
