Figma is more than a design tool
Figma helps the Commonwealth deliver accessible, consistent digital services by making it easier for teams to collaborate and design in one shared space.
It’s a shared digital workspace that brings every discipline involved in building digital experiences together — helping teams work faster, stay aligned, and make better decisions earlier in the process.
- Designers create and iterate together in real time using shared libraries that ensure accessibility and consistency across every agency.
- Researchers test designs and prototypes with residents, connecting insights directly to design decisions and reducing delivery risk.
- Content writers craft and refine plain-language copy with a clear understanding of hierarchy and layout, improving comprehension and engagement.
- Accessibility specialists review designs before development begins, preventing barriers and reducing costly rework later.
- Stakeholders and product owners review and comment directly in files, minimizing back-and-forth revisions.
- Developers use Dev Mode to inspect design specs, variables, and assets instantly, ensuring accurate and efficient implementation.
When everyone works in the same space, collaboration becomes part of the process — not a separate step.
Joining the state-managed Figma account
Mass Digital manages a shared Figma Enterprise account that supports design collaboration across agencies. Central management reduces redundant costs, ensures equitable access, and simplifies license administration statewide.
This structure allows agencies to:
- Pay only for the seats they use through a simple chargeback model managed by Mass Digital
- Reduce design and development rework by using the same component libraries
- Build accessibility in from the start, reducing the need for post-delivery fixes
Shared design system resources
Agencies and vendor partners that join the centrally managed Figma account gain direct access to:
- Massachusetts Design System styles for color, typography, spacing, corner radius, and elevation
- Prebuilt components for commonly used interface elements with color variants, usage guidance, responsive behavior, and accessibility requirements
- An icon library of open-source and custom-designed assets
- Templates for navigation, content layouts, and common patterns
- Support from the dedicated Design System team
By designing with shared assets, agencies ensure that every service — whether a license renewal or benefits application — looks and works like part of the same trusted experience.
Shared libraries and templates reduce project setup time and improve design-to-development alignment across agencies.
Privacy control and asset management with Figma Enterprise
The Mass Digital Figma account runs on Figma’s Enterprise tier to provide the security, scalability, and collaboration features needed to support design work across all state agencies.
- All agencies and vendor partners create and manage designs within a Mass Digital–managed environment.
- Access is governed through role-based permissions and workspace controls, ensuring project visibility only for approved users.
- Centralized ownership protects institutional knowledge and guarantees continuity of assets even when staff or vendors change.
Together, these tools and practices help the Commonwealth design digital services that are consistent, accessible, and built to last.