Design Glossary

Dashboard design is the creation of data visualization interfaces that help users monitor, analyze, and interact with key information at a glance. It combines layout, data hierarchy, and interaction patterns to make complex information accessible and actionable.

A comprehensive evaluation of a product's design system, user experience, and visual consistency to identify gaps, opportunities, and areas for improvement.

A foundational document that outlines project goals, audience, constraints, and success metrics to align stakeholders and guide design decisions from start to finish.

A structured feedback session where designers present work to peers or stakeholders, receive constructive criticism, and iterate based on input before finalizing designs.

Design for AI refers to creating user interfaces and experiences optimized for AI-powered products, where the interaction model centers on prediction, automation, and human-AI collaboration rather than traditional navigation.

Design handoff is the process of transferring design files, specifications, and documentation from designers to developers so they can build the product accurately.

A formal document that outlines how a design agency will approach, execute, and deliver work on your project, including scope, timeline, costs, and creative direction.

Design research is the systematic investigation of user needs, behaviors, and contexts to inform product decisions. It uses methods like interviews, observations, and testing to uncover insights that guide design strategy.

A time-boxed, structured problem-solving method where cross-functional teams work intensively over 3-5 days to prototype and test solutions for a specific challenge.

Design strategy is the process of aligning visual and user experience decisions with business goals to solve real problems and guide product development.

A comprehensive set of reusable components, design standards, and guidelines that ensure consistency across a product's user interface and user experience.

A problem-solving methodology that prioritizes understanding user needs through research and iteration, then applies that insight to develop practical solutions.

Design tokens are the coded values (colors, typography, spacing, etc.) that define your product's visual language. They're stored in a centralized system and distributed across design and development tools to ensure consistency.

The initial research and planning phase where teams gather information about users, competitors, and market context before designing or building a product.