The designer-developer relationship often becomes strained when implementation doesn't match design expectations. Small discrepancies in spacing, colors, or responsive behavior accumulate and frustrate both sides. Designers compile lists of fixes, developers grow irritated with corrections, and product managers struggle to balance competing demands.

Breaking this cycle requires changing how teams work together. Designers should:

• Invite developers into the design process early through ideation sessions
• Co-design solutions with developers to ensure technical feasibility
• Attend backlog refinement for direct communication
• Conduct design reviews during implementation, not after
• Include design reviews in the definition of done
• Teach developers key design principles
• Learn basic front-end skills and contribute to the implementation
• Foster direct communication with engineers

This shared responsibility prevents discrepancies before they occur, reducing rework and frustration while creating a more collaborative environment.