# About

Our principles are the practical, stern, opinionated standards that guide decision making. They reinforce our core values and help decisions move in a consistent direction.

Tabs: [Overview](/about/about.overview.md) · [Values](/about/about.values.md) · [Principles](/about/about.principles.md) · [Sharing](/about/about.sharing.md) · [Growth](/about/about.growth.md)

## Provide the path of least resistance

Consider the system a toolbox, not a rulebook. Our design system aims to provide tools and information to enhance what has been built, not to control it.

## The goal is cohesion, not consistency

We aim for consistency, usability, accessibility, and efficiency. But the primary goal isn't enforcing consistency. Efficiency leads to consistency naturally in a user-friendly, empowering system. Don't prioritise consistency over usability, it can lead to stagnation.

## Think inclusively

Accessibility is [an integral part of creating a design system](https://medium.com/thinking-design/building-accessibility-into-design-systems-db9062893079), not a last-minute check. Inclusivity is crucial for creating successful, ethical products that can be scaled. We have the opportunity to make accessibility a fundamental standard for design, development, and content strategy.

## Justify every addition

It’s very easy to add. It’s almost impossible to remove. Therefore, every addition should be justified. It's a delicate balance, but complexities added to the foundation of a design system can become difficult to change once users are accustomed to them.

## Default to openness

We should share what we’re doing whenever we can. Building our services transparently increases their visibility and accountability and makes us push towards higher quality.