Google Local Guides are power users who add content and update listings on Google Maps. The Local Guides team rewards this user generated content with points, prizes, and perks. The team required clear and communicative emails to encourage contributions.
What were the problems?
Google’s design UI is thoroughly spec’d. Though there were several Sketch stickersheets available that included UI elements used across Google’s product lines, there wasn’t a current style guide or Sketch stickersheet available for use on the Local Guides emails. Having to reference different design specs consumed a lot of time and could be overwhelming.
- How can we quickly create scannable and engaging emails for Local Guides?
- How might we keep our designs consistent no matter who designs it, requests it, or tests it?
- My role - Design
- Platforms - Sketch
What was the approach?
Collect resources
I created a Sketch stickersheet with all branded colors, icons, and typography fully spec’d out and ready to implement. All Local Guides approved UI elements were included, such as buttons, lists, and cards.
Create modular designs
A modular approach to design allows for flexibility that a rigid template cannot match. Using content modules makes it easy to build and adapt emails to the different needs of the team and the users without having to reinvent the wheel each time. By having a library of at-hand modules, our design workflow became quicker and easier.
Detail specs and redlines
Margins, padding, elevations, and differing use cases were detailed and codified. Having a single library also allows for inherited updates if and when the specs are updated.
What were the learnings or compromises?
- Designers on the team were immensely relieved to have this resource. They were able to put their attention on the designs rather than hunting for the rules.
- Not focusing on the minutia encourages a more creative process.