Scaling a Design System – From Single Brand to Multi‑Brand Implementation
Scaling a design system has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of my career. I remember hosting an in‑office workshop with ad agency partners where we mapped out a roadmap to transition from a single‑brand system to one that supports multiple brands. That collaborative session revealed both the complexities and immense potential of a scalable system.
Overview
Scaling from a single brand to a multi‑brand ecosystem requires foresight, adaptability, and a flexible framework to meet growing needs.
Scaling Strategies
- Build a Strong Foundation: Start with a comprehensive, well‑documented system designed for scalability.
- Ensure Modularity: Develop reusable components adaptable to various brand contexts.
- Create a Scalable Governance Model: Implement processes that evolve as the system grows.
- Invest in Automation: Use automation tools to streamline updates across brands.
- Pilot Programs: Test on a smaller scale to refine the system before full‑scale rollout.
Conclusion
With a strong foundation, modular design, robust governance, and effective automation, a design system can successfully scale to support multiple brands while maintaining consistency and efficiency.