Design System Principles

Embrace reuse and ditch the unnecessary.

The more we reuse a component, the more time we save and the more consistent our user experience will be. 

  • Avoid adding multiple components for similar use cases. 

  • Limit the number of variations. 

  • Add flexibility to components with care.

Strive for universal accessibility.

A high quality design system is accessible to as many people as possible.

Build open source and theme ready.

This design system is created for Open edX – open source software that powers learning experiences worldwide. 

  • Remember that the edx.org look and feel is a theme for Paragon. Consider the default design for the Open edX context.

  • Do not hard code edx.org content.

Act like an owner.

We own these tools, together. Collective ownership by a cross-functional group makes our work stronger. We leverage the perspectives and unique expertise of many individuals.

  • When you notice something that needs fixing: fix it. Or, if you don’t have time, log a task and share it with the #paragon-working-group.

  • Seek the perspectives of engineers, designers, and product managers when creating new components.

  • Invite others, particularly new engineers and designers to participate in improving these tools.

 


edX Brand Principles

edX Design Principles

  • Human (Engaging, Relatable, Encouraging)

  • Restless (Pioneering, Transformative, Dogged)

  • Smart (Curious, Credible, Informed)

  • Purposeful (Intentional, Bold, Energizing)

  • Ditch the Unnecessary

  • Context is King

  • Consistency, Always

  • Accessibility for All