We’ve all been there: opening a design file only to find "Group 48," "Layer 2 copy," and "Vector 102." It’s a nightmare for collaboration. To build a scalable design system, you need layer guidelines that your team will actually want to follow.
1. Use the "Component-First" Naming Logic
Instead of describing what an object looks like (e.g., "Blue Circle"), describe what it is. Use a functional naming convention: Category/Component/State.
- Bad: Big Button New
- Good: Button/Primary/Hover
2. Implement a Vertical Hierarchy
Think of your layers like a book's table of contents. The most important elements should be at the top. Group related items into logical containers and use Auto Layout (in Figma) to maintain structure automatically.
3. The "Emoji Prefix" Trick
Visual cues help designers scan the layer panel faster. Many high-performing teams use emojis to categorize layers:
| Emoji | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ❖ | Main Component |
| 🎨 | Style/Illustration |
| 🔒 | Locked/Background |
4. Kill the "Hidden Layers"
If a layer isn't serving a purpose, delete it. Hidden layers bloat file size and confuse developers during handoff. If you need to keep explorations, move them to a "Drafts" page instead of keeping them hidden in the final mockup.
Pro Tip: Use plugins like "Rename It" or "Design System Organizer" to batch-rename layers and keep your workspace pristine without the manual labor.
Summary
Consistency beats perfection. The best layer guidelines are the ones that are simple enough for a tired designer to follow at 2 AM. Keep it functional, keep it clean, and keep it organized.