Whatever problem you’re trying to solve it's likely that someone has already faced it, or a similar one.

We follow a component based approach to design. Breaking things down into meaningful components and patterns, which we share, re-use and review.

It is our responsibility to use existing patterns and examples first and to contribute back to them.

Before creating something new you should always check:

  • the GDS Design System and its backlog
  • the DWP Design System and its backlog
  • DWP Design Examples (on DWP’s Confluence pages)
  • Slack, ask your colleagues if they’re working on any similar problems

GDS Design System

We look for design patterns from GOV UK first.

See the GDS Design System and its backlog

DWP Design System

The DWP Design System includes patterns and components built and tested in DWP. These are all elements the GDS Design System does not include.

Our design patterns follow and support the GDS Design System.

See the DWP Design System and its backlog

DWP Design Examples

We use an internal Confluence site to share emerging designs. The collected work is not yet a pattern and may never be. We use this space to build visibility and agree future patterns.

The examples are available on DWP’s internal Confluence pages.

If no standard pattern or component exists

In most cases you will find something existing to build on. If not, you must share your new designs and get regular feedback on them from the design community.