Creating a system vision helps teams imagine the design system's long-term impact through the eyes of others. Instead of debating what the system should be, participants write what they hope people will say about it in three or five years' time. This shifts the focus from internal preferences to shared outcomes grounded in real value. Use this to align direction, set measurable goals, and turn aspirations into an actionable roadmap.
How to
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Set the timeframe
Choose whether to look three or five years ahead. Frame the session around what success would genuinely feel like by then.
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Write the system vision statements
Ask participants to write short "statements from the future," as if the system already exists and is thriving. Capture phrases from designers, engineers, leaders, and users across different teams.
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Share and group
Read the statements aloud, then cluster similar ones into themes such as adoption, quality, contribution, speed, or collaboration.
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Vote and prioritise
Vote on which vision statements feel most impactful or essential to success. Balance quick wins with longer-term goals that would create meaningful change.
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Map actions
Work backwards from the top priorities to determine what needs to happen now, next, and in the future. Use these to shape your Business Case and Roadmap Planning so ambition and practicality stay aligned.