TLDR Design · OPINIONS & TUTORIALS

RETHINKING THE TERM "PRIMITIVES" IN DESIGN SYSTEMS

studiobuizert.com3 min read

Summary from the TLDR Design newsletter

The term "primitives" in design systems refers to foundational elements like color, typography, and spacing but may feel vague to non-technical teams. Alternatives like "root" and "foundation" offer clearer, more inclusive language that fosters better collaboration and understanding across design, development, and stakeholder teams.