Start prototyping
Before building a service, teams often create prototypes to explore ideas, test user journeys and learn from users through research. Prototyping helps teams make informed design decisions and identify issues early.
The design system supports both Figma and coded prototyping. This guidance will help you choose the most appropriate approach for your work.
Figma prototypes
These are prototypes are created using the design tool Figma. They are useful for visualising what a service could look like and how users might move through it. Because they are quick to create and update, they are often used during the early stages of design.
Read how to set up Figma prototypes.
Important: Getting access to Figma
Access to Figma for Digital Health and Care Wales staff is managed by the User-Centred Design team. The type of access you need will depend on how you plan to use Figma.
Email dhcw.ucd@wales.nhs.uk to discuss your requirements.
Coded prototypes
Coded prototypes are created using code rather than a design tool. They allow users to move through pages and complete tasks in a way that feels similar to using a real service. They are useful for understanding how journeys, forms and interactions may work before they are developed.
We're currently developing the DHCW Prototyping Kit to make it easier to create coded prototypes using components, styles and patterns from the Design System. In the meantime, you can use our Figma resources to design and test journeys, and use the code and guidance provided with our components to start building with the Design System. If you need help creating a coded prototype, contact design.system@wales.nhs.uk.
Accessibility and user research
The design system is built to support the design of accessible services. Components and patterns are reviewed against Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 at level AA and refined through feedback.
Teams should still test their own services with users and make sure designs meet the needs of the people who will use them.
Get support and contribute
The design system is shaped by the feedback of teams across Digital Health and Care Wales. Help us improve the design system by suggesting changes and contributing patterns, components and guidance.
Email design.system@wales.nhs.uk to share your feedback.