Define how AI tools fit into your design system workflow, who can use them for what, and how decisions get made about AI adoption. Good governance prevents chaos whilst enabling teams to benefit from AI capabilities.
Governing AI Usage
How to
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Assess current usage
Map which teams use AI tools, for what tasks, and with what level of oversight. Identify unofficial usage and workarounds.
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Define approval levels
Specify which AI usage is pre-approved (documentation drafts, test generation), which needs review (component code, specs), and which is restricted (strategic decisions, brand work).
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Assign responsibilities
Use RACI to clarify who's responsible for AI tool selection, prompt library maintenance, output validation, and audit processes.
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Set tool standards
Decide which AI tools are approved for system work. Consider data privacy, output quality, integration with existing tools, and cost.
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Create contribution paths
Define how AI-generated work enters the system: same contribution process as human work, or different validation path. Ensure quality standards remain consistent.
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Review and adapt
Revisit governance as AI capabilities evolve. Don't lock into rigid rules—maintain flexibility whilst ensuring quality.