Automate CSS Color Variable Generation from Figma JSON with Style Dictionary

[georgewrmarshall]

Description

To enhance the efficiency and consistency of our design system implementation, we propose the automation of CSS variable generation using Style Dictionary, directly from our design tokens defined in Figma JSON. This initiative aims to streamline the process of updating and maintaining our design tokens, ensuring that changes in Figma are automatically reflected in our codebase as CSS variables. By automating this workflow, we can reduce manual errors, save development time, and ensure a seamless alignment between our design and development environments.

Technical Details

• Objective: Set up an automated workflow using Style Dictionary to generate CSS variables from design tokens exported as JSON from Figma.
• Implementation Steps:
  1. Export the current design tokens from Figma as JSON, ensuring all necessary tokens are accurately defined.
  2. Set up Style Dictionary in our design tokens repository, configuring it to process the Figma JSON file.
  3. Define a transformation within Style Dictionary to convert design tokens into CSS variables, considering naming conventions and theming structures.
  4. Implement an automated workflow (e.g., GitHub Actions) that triggers the Style Dictionary process upon updates to the Figma JSON file.
  5. Test the automated generation of CSS variables to ensure accuracy and consistency with the design tokens defined in Figma.
• Dependencies: Access to the Figma project, familiarity with Style Dictionary, and permissions to set up automated workflows in the repository.

Acceptance Criteria

• Design tokens defined in Figma can be automatically exported as JSON and processed by Style Dictionary to generate CSS variables.
• The generated CSS variables accurately reflect the design tokens defined in Figma, maintaining naming conventions and theming structures.
• An automated workflow is in place, triggering the generation of CSS variables upon updates to the design tokens in Figma.
• The development team can easily integrate and use the generated CSS variables in the codebase, enhancing the alignment with the design system.
• Documentation is updated to include the new automated workflow, guiding contributors on how to make design token changes in Figma and how they are reflected in the codebase.

Additional Notes

This automation represents a significant step towards bridging the gap between our design and development processes. By leveraging Style Dictionary and the power of automation, we can ensure that our design system remains dynamic, scalable, and tightly integrated with our development efforts.