Pro Tips for Design System Migration in Large Projects

screen from Kristaps Ungurs

Migrating a UI library in a large project is a daunting task. Frequently, issues may remain unseen until they emerge in the production phase, resulting in frustration for both end-users and developers alike.

In this article, we’ll offer essential tips on executing the migration gracefully, empowering developers to navigate the process confidently and without fear.

Plan Your Migration Strategy

A well-defined migration strategy is the cornerstone of a successful transition. Here are some essential considerations to keep in mind:

1. Branch strategy
   Merge changes directly into the main branch rather than creating feature branches. This streamlined approach allows for immediate detection and resolution of UI errors.
2. Handling new features
   Coordinate the integration of new features with ongoing UI migration efforts to avoid conflicts. Prioritize tasks by aligning UI migration activities with feature development or breaking down feature implementation into smaller, incremental updates.
3. Component inventory
   Organize components based on their status — those with alternatives ready and those awaiting further discussion. This systematic approach aids in task prioritization and progress monitoring, ensuring a meticulous and comprehensive migration process.

The complexities in migration and beyond

While finalizing the migration strategy may seem like a milestone, there are crucial technical challenges to address:

1. Numerous files and diverse components
   Migrating involves managing a plenty of files and components, requiring thorough cross-checking and a considerable time investment.
2. Post-migration UI assurance
   how can we efficiently identify layout shifts or color differences after the migration?

Practical solutions

To tackle the migration process effectively, consider these practical solutions:

1. Start small
   Initiate with a proof of concept, migrating a single component or module to identify potential challenges early on.
2. Automate repetitive tasks
   Streamline the process by leveraging automatic scripts like codemod or similar tools to expedite the updating of code across your project, saving time and reducing manual effort.
3. Detect layout changes with snapshot tools
   Use snapshot tools like Cypress or Jest to compare screenshots of the UI before and after the migration. This ensures that the visual presentation remains consistent throughout the migration process.
4. Employ functional testing tools
   Implement end-to-end tests using framework like Cypress to ensure the functionality and design integrity of your migrated UI. Conduct comprehensive testing to validate both the behavior and appearance of your application, ensuring it meets user expectations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, migrating UI libraries in large projects can be a complex undertaking, but with the right approach and insider tips, it becomes a manageable process. By thoroughly assessing migration strategy meticulously executing the migration process with care, you can navigate through the transition seamlessly. Remember to communicate effectively with stakeholders, collaborate with team members, and iterate on the migration process based on feedback and performance monitoring.