A Hypothesis Statement is your starting point for alignment. It frames who the system is for, the problems it aims to solve, and how it connects to business goals. Use this at the beginning of your system journey to anchor workshops and conversations. Everything you do next tests, validates, or challenges this assumption, helping you adjust direction with evidence rather than guesswork.
How to
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Start with the template
We believe a design system for [audience] will solve [problems] and help us achieve [business goals].
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Unpack the terms
Define who it is for, what it covers, and why it matters. Be explicit about assumptions so they can be tested.
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Validate
Bring the statement into alignment exercises such as System Vision Workshop, Risk Forecasting, RAIDs, and Leadership Alignment. Use it to ground discussions and reveal where direction needs adjusting.
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Evolve as you learn
Refine the statement continuously as Audits, Interviews and workshops surface new insights. Use each evolution to confirm whether the system is still solving the most important problems or if you need to pivot.