STACK
Introduction
How can Figma level up its product lineup?
As Figma expands its suite of products to support users at every step, we explored potential directions for its future, with a particular focus on how AI could be introduced. According to Figma’s AI Report, only 31% of designers use AI for core work compared to 59% of developers. Recognizing this gap, we wanted to explore how Figma might innovate to bridge the divide and reimagine how designers work with AI.
Problem [users]
Mastering Figma’s advanced features isn’t easy, and many users struggle to improve their skills
From my own experience in design-related clubs, I’ve noticed that many members don't explore beyond the fundamentals, often because they don’t know where to look for resources, find it challenging to stay inspired, or are unaware of alternative methods. Instead, they continue working with just the basics of Figma, which limits both their efficiency and their ability to collaborate at a higher level.
Problem [business]
Embed Figma deeply into users’ workflows.
Drive adoption of new features
Support users in discovering and using new functionality
Increase platform loyalty
The more confident users are in Figma, the less they’ll consider alternatives
Solution
Design Pal is your on-canvas AI assistant that provides real-time, context-aware assistance for designers at all skill levels
1/2
Using the panel in Figma to add Auto Layout? Learn about available keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow!
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Instantly get redirected to online articles or time-stamped videos to solve your problem
Simply ask your Design Pal any question to get immediate assistance.
Scoping
A Figma widget backed by an API layer, with a context engine that reads selections and powers guided learning in a safe sandbox.
Principles
Context first. Fast by default. Resilient to failure. Simple data flow.
Reflection
Key Learnings
To AI or not to AI
Exploring AI taught me how to balance its use — recognizing when it improves efficiency and when traditional methods work better.
Balancing vision and feasibility
By understanding technical constraints early, we refined our ideas to deliver a solution that met needs while staying technically achievable.
To AI or not to AI
Exploring AI taught me how to balance its use — recognizing when it improves efficiency and when traditional methods work better.
Balancing vision and feasibility
By understanding technical constraints early, we refined our ideas to deliver a solution that met needs while staying technically achievable.
After finishing this project, we saw the release of Figma's "prompt to edit" alpha, validating that the direction of our project was the direction that Figma is headed in.
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