Learning from design system audits

Audits are not only a starting point but also a long-term health check for any design system. They reveal whether the system still meets its goals, stays consistent across platforms, and supports both designers and developers effectively. By revisiting what has been built, teams can spot outdated components, unclear documentation, or areas where new needs have emerged.

A productive system audit includes:

• Reviewing component usage. Identify which patterns are widely adopted and which are underused or duplicated.
• Comparing design and code. Ensure that visual and coded versions of each element match in behavior and appearance.
• Checking accessibility standards. Verify that updates meet current compliance and usability expectations.
• Gathering feedback. Interview or survey system users to understand what helps and what causes friction.
• Prioritizing improvements. Turn findings into actionable next steps with clear ownership.

Regular reviews strengthen trust, promote accountability, and make the system a dependable foundation rather than a static library.