One of the features that makes Figma so attractive to designers (aside from its amazing variety of plugins) is its UI kits. These kits are pre-designed Figma templates that contain a variety of UI elements, such as buttons, icons, and forms, which can be used to create consistent and visually appealing designs.
The purpose of this blog post is to explore the pros and cons of using Figma UI kits. While UI kits can be a helpful tool for designers, they also have their limitations. In this post, we will examine both the advantages and disadvantages of using UI kits, and discuss how they can be used effectively. We will also share some tips for designers who want to make the most of this tool.
By the end of this blog post, readers will have a better understanding of the role that UI kits can play in their design process and be able to make an informed decision about whether or not to use them in their work.
The Pros of Using UI Kits in Figma
Using Figma UI kits offers several advantages for designers. Firstly, they can save a significant amount of time and effort, as designers do not have to start every project from scratch. In this section, we'll explore the top pros of using UI kits in Figma and how they can enhance your design workflow.
1. Saves time and effort
One of the most significant advantages of using Figma UI kits is that it saves time and effort. UI kits contain pre-designed elements that designers can use as a starting point. These elements can include icons, buttons, forms, and other UI components that are essential for designing a user interface. By using pre-designed elements, designers can save time by not having to start from scratch every time, allowing them to focus on other critical aspects of the design, such as user experience and layout.
2. Consistency in design
Another benefit of using Figma UI kits is that they promote consistency in design. Consistency is crucial for building a recognizable brand. A consistent design helps users recognize and navigate a website or application quickly. By using the same UI elements across different designs, designers can ensure a consistent user experience that builds trust and familiarity.
3. User-friendly
Figma UI kits are also user-friendly, with an intuitive interface that is easy to use. Even designers with limited experience can quickly grasp how to use the pre-designed elements and create professional-looking designs. This intuitive interface can reduce the learning curve and enable designers to create designs quickly.
4. Access to a wide range of design elements
Lastly, Figma UI kits provide access to a wide range of design elements. This can include anything from icons and buttons to entire design systems. This variety allows designers to choose from multiple options and create a design that meets their needs.
By using Figma UI kits, designers can streamline their workflow and create high-quality designs quickly and efficiently.
The Cons of Using UI Kits in Figma
While Figma UI kits provide many advantages to designers, they also have their limitations and drawbacks. Below are some of the cons of using Figma UI kits:
1. Limitations in creativity and flexibility
One of the major drawbacks of using Figma UI kits is that they may limit a designer's creativity and flexibility. The pre-designed elements may not fit every project's specific requirements, leading to designers feeling constrained in their design choices. Moreover, by relying heavily on pre-designed elements, designers may not explore alternative design solutions, leading to repetitive or generic designs.
2. Risks of design plagiarism
Another issue with using Figma UI kits is the risk of design plagiarism. Because UI kits are easily accessible to anyone, they can be used by multiple designers, leading to similar designs across different products. This can result in design plagiarism and a lack of uniqueness for a brand, leading to a negative impact on the brand's reputation.
3. Possibility of using outdated design trends
UI kits can become outdated over time, resulting in designers using out-of-style design trends. This can negatively impact the overall design aesthetic and cause the product to appear outdated and less desirable. It is essential to update UI kits frequently to ensure that designers have access to current design trends.
4. Overdependence on UI kits
Lastly, designers may become over-dependent on UI kits, leading to a lack of originality and creativity in their designs. Over-reliance on UI kits can cause designers to become lazy and unadventurous, leading to uninspired designs that do not stand out from competitors.
Tips for Using UI Kits Effectively
To use Figma UI kits effectively, designers should keep the following tips in mind.
Research and choose the right UI kit
Designers should research and choose a UI kit that is suitable for their project's needs. There are many UI kits available, each with its unique design style and functionality. Selecting the right UI kit will help ensure that the design is consistent and meets the project's requirements.
Customize designs to fit project requirements
While UI kits are a great starting point, designers should always seek to customize designs to fit their project requirements. By adding their unique spin to designs, they can create a unique and memorable design that stands out from competitors.
Maintain design consistency while using UI kits
Designers should maintain design consistency while using UI kits. This includes using the same color scheme, typography, and design elements throughout the design. Consistency helps create a cohesive design that is easy to navigate and provides a positive user experience.
Keep UI Kits up-to-date
As a designer, it's important to stay up-to-date with current design trends. Design trends change quickly, and it's essential to keep your designs fresh and modern. However, using outdated design elements can lead to repetitive and outdated designs, which can negatively impact your design's effectiveness. That's why it's crucial to keep your UI kits up-to-date by regularly updating the design elements and adding new design trends. By doing so, you can ensure that you're using the latest design elements and creating visually appealing designs that resonate with your audience. Plus, keeping your UI kits up-to-date is a fun and exciting way to experiment with new design trends and styles. So, embrace the challenge, stay curious, and keep your designs on-trend!
Don't overuse UI kits
Designers should avoid overusing UI kits and relying too heavily on pre-designed elements. Instead, they should seek to add their unique spin to designs and explore alternative design solutions to create memorable and unique designs.
In conclusion, using UI kits can save time and effort, promote design consistency, and provide access to a wide range of design elements. However, designers should use them effectively by customizing them to suit their specific design needs, maintaining design consistency, avoiding over-reliance, and keeping them up-to-date. By following these best practices, designers can create visually appealing designs that meet the project's requirements and provide a positive user experience.
If you’d like to learn more about Figma, continue reading:
- Combining Figma With Other Tools For a Higher-Quality Design
- The Figma Complete Guide: Useful Tools, Prototyping and Good Practices
- Figma Prototype: What is it and why use it for design?
