Design tokens are the atomic values that form the foundation of a design system—named entities that store visual design attributes. They create a shared language between designers and developers while ensuring consistency at scale.
Types of design tokens:
- Global tokens: Universal values (brand colors, typography)
- Alias tokens: Contextual references to global tokens
- Component tokens: Specific values for individual components
- Semantic tokens: Purpose-based naming (success, warning, error)
- State tokens: Values for different interaction states
Key token categories to define:
- Color tokens: Primary, secondary, tertiary palettes
- Typography tokens: Font families, sizes, weights, line heights
- Spacing tokens: Margin and padding values
- Border tokens: Width, radius, and color values
- Shadow tokens: Elevation and depth indicators
- Animation tokens: Duration, easing, and delay values
- Media query tokens: Breakpoint definitions
Implementation best practices:
- Use platform-agnostic token formats (JSON, YAML)
- Create a clear naming convention (category/type/variant)
- Document the purpose of each token
- Manage tokens as a single source of truth
- Automate token transformation for different platforms
- Version tokens independently from components
Benefits of token-based systems:
- 4× faster UI implementation
- 80% reduction in design inconsistencies
- Simplified dark mode and theming implementation
- Easier accessibility compliance
- More efficient design handoff
When building a token system:
- Start simple with core tokens before expanding
- Focus on naming consistency from the beginning
- Involve both design and development in token definition
- Consider how tokens will scale across products
- Create documentation that explains token usage, not just values
Design tokens transform abstract design decisions into systematic, scalable code—bridging the gap between creative intent and technical implementation.