Prism

Case Study: Prism Design System Introduction Prism is Disney's design system, named after the phenomenon where a single source of light passes through a prism and disperses into a rainbow of colors. This metaphor reflects Disney's strategy of applying a universal framework, intersecting its elements in various ways, and channeling them through distinct brand style guides to create a diverse array of products and experiences. Background The Prism design system was developed to unify the visual and functional aspects of Disney's extensive portfolio, encompassing brands such as GMA, ABC News, ABC Local News, ESPN, Disney, Disney Now, Freeform, FX, Marvel, National Geographic, Nat Geo TV, the Oscars, and Star Wars. Objectives The primary goals of the Prism design system were: • Consistency: Ensure design consistency across all Disney products. • Efficiency: Provide reusable code and tools for developers and designers. • Accessibility: Offer guidance on accessibility, page layout, editorial, branding, data visualization, UX patterns, and other tools. • Collaboration: Facilitate collaboration between various design and product teams. Approach The X-Brand Design team was responsible for overseeing design efforts that spanned multiple brands and products within Disney. This team worked closely with members of each Vertical Design team to develop and stress-test solutions before integrating them into the Prism framework. The process involved: 1. Development: Creating a library of visual styles and components. 2. Documentation: Documenting and releasing reusable code for developers and tools for designers. 3. Review: Collaborating with the DTCI Design team, engineering partners, and product teams to review and refine Prism content and specifications. Outcomes The implementation of the Prism design system led to several key accomplishments: Unified Design Language: A cohesive design language across Disney's diverse product portfolio. • Enhanced User Experience: Improved consumer experience through consistent and accessible design. • Efficient Workflow: Streamlined development and design processes with reusable components and tools. • Collaborative Culture: Fostered a collaborative environment among various teams within Disney. Conclusion The Prism design system exemplifies how a universal framework can be adapted to meet the unique needs of multiple brands, resulting in a kaleidoscope of products and experiences. By prioritizing consistency, efficiency, accessibility, and collaboration, Disney successfully enhanced its design efforts and overall consumer experience.