Distributed Token Management

What are Design Tokens?

Design tokens are the visual design atoms of the product’s UI. They are named entities that store visual design attributes and can be used in various contexts. Examples include colors, spacing, typography, and more.

Distributed Token Management

Distributed Token Management refers to the strategy of managing design tokens across multiple platforms and frameworks while ensuring consistency and scalability. It allows teams to share design tokens effectively, making them accessible across various applications.

Implementation Strategies

1. Define a Centralized Token Repository: Use a tool like Style Dictionary to manage tokens in a single source.
2. Utilize Version Control: Store your token definitions in a Git repository to keep track of changes.
3. Implement Build Processes: Use build tools to automate token updates across different projects.
4. Adopt a Naming Convention: Establish a clear naming convention for tokens to ensure ease of use and understanding.
5. Integrate with Design Tools: Connect your token system with design tools like Figma or Sketch for seamless collaboration.

Example of a Token Definition

{
  "color": {
    "primary": "#007bff",
    "secondary": "#6c757d"
  },
  "font": {
    "baseSize": "16px",
    "headingSize": "24px"
  }
}
                

Best Practices

• Regularly audit tokens for outdated or unused definitions.
• Keep the token structure simple and intuitive.
• Document your tokens and their usage thoroughly.
• Encourage team collaboration to gather feedback on token usage.
• Monitor changes carefully to avoid breaking changes in the application.

FAQ