It’s Time We Expand Our Definition of Design | Figma Blog (opens in new tab)

Figma argues that design should no longer be viewed as the exclusive domain of professional designers. Marketers, developers, product managers, and other collaborators already make visual and communication decisions every day, but often lack the confidence or tools to do so effectively. Expanding access, simplifying workflows, and changing organizational mindsets can help more people participate meaningfully in design.

Design Tools as Spaces of Belonging

• Figma files can feel intimidating to non-designers, much like entering an unfamiliar gallery or professional critique.
• Simply inviting someone into a design tool does not guarantee that they will feel comfortable contributing.
• Tools can help create belonging by making collaboration more approachable and welcoming.

Everyday Work Is Design

• The author describes repeatedly creating thumbnails, event invitations, and other assets in marketing, product, and sales roles to avoid design bottlenecks.
• These activities involve visual communication, creativity, and decisions about how audiences understand and engage with information.
• Products such as FigJam, Dev Mode, and Figma Slides are already helping marketers, developers, and other partners work more confidently.
• The larger shift requires organizations and individuals to recognize that design participation is not limited by job title.

Making Design More Inclusive

• Teams can support “everyday designers” through:
  • Templates that provide a reliable starting point.
  • Simpler, more accessible tools.
  • Features for staying on brand and finding approved assets.
  • Assistance with copy exploration and approval workflows.
• Organizations should also educate, validate, and celebrate colleagues who want to improve their design skills.
• As work becomes faster and more collaborative, these forms of support become increasingly important.

Figma’s broader recommendation is to treat design as a shared organizational practice. By giving non-designers better guidance, accessible tools, and permission to contribute, teams can produce stronger work while helping more people feel that they belong in the design process.