Let me begin with this: I've been a fan of Loom even before I had the chance to collaborate with them. And after working together? My appreciation for Loom has only grown. For those unfamiliar, Loom offers a transformative software solution that allows users to record themselves and their screens, minimizing unnecessary meetings and championing asynchronous work—something I'm a huge advocate for.
Process
My journey with Loom kicked off when I saw a tweet from Sean Thompson, whom I'd been following on Twitter. He mentioned the need for a design systems expert to help revamp their design system. It felt like the opportunity of a lifetime, so naturally, I reached out directly. (Getting work through sliding into DM’s…)
Although we were working with a limited budget — a common scenario in many projects — the initiative was a resounding success. This was largely due to our commitment to thoroughly scope and plan the redesign of the design system.
Scoping work in Notion before kick-off
Kick-off
We engaged the entire design and development team in a brainstorming session to evaluate what was working and what needed enhancement. Our goal was to ensure that we weren't just rebuilding for the sake of it but were genuinely making the design process more efficient, cohesive, and structured for the team.
Following the workshop, Sean and I meticulously cataloged every component, pattern, and template in Notion that we intended to revamp. This approach helped us outline a detailed timeline with clear milestones for the project.
Team workshop
Staying connected through looms
As the project progressed, I kept the team updated weekly using Loom videos. This not only allowed for transparent communication but also encouraged engagement, questions, and, of course, plenty of supportive emojis! Emojis speak to me on a personal level. 🥰
Finalizing the design system
Ultimately, we developed a robust, adaptable design system for the Loom product team. I always strive to create a design system that is 'just right' in size. Contrary to the belief that 'more is better,' I've found that a streamlined, precisely tailored design system is most effective. Components should be added only when genuinely needed (and after they're needed for the third time), not simply because they come to mind.
To streamline the onboarding process for new design team members, I wrapped up our project by creating a series of Loom videos (naturally). These videos highlight how to effectively navigate and utilize the design system, the optimal timing and process for introducing new components, and the best practices for updating existing ones.
He is highly organized, malleable to team feedback yet principled
Anton partnered with us to reimagine Loom’s design system and our team could not be happier. He is highly organized, malleable to team feedback yet principled, and the deliverables he helped us produce will absolutely help accelerate the velocity and collaboration within Design and beyond.
I cannot recommend Anton enough for design system partnerships that benefit from someone with specialized expertise.
