Koddesign

Koddesign is a term used in digital design circles to describe a design practice that treats code as a primary medium for shaping user experience and function. The approach blends software development and design, prioritizing modularity, rapid prototyping, and close collaboration between designers and developers.

Etymology and usage: The word koddesign is a portmanteau of code (or kod in some circles) and design. It is used by a subset of designers and developers to signal a workflow that encodes design decisions in executable artifacts rather than in static mockups.

Principles: Key principles include component-based design, design systems, version control, performance-aware coding, accessibility, and testable interfaces. The practice emphasizes iteration, data-driven decisions, and the reuse of code components to support scalable interfaces.

Practice and methods: Practitioners often begin with code-centric prototyping using HTML/CSS/JavaScript or processing frameworks, then iterate toward production-ready components. Design tokens, style sheets, and design systems are used to maintain consistency across products. Collaboration with engineers is integral.

Applications and impact: Koddesign informs web apps, mobile interfaces, interactive installations, data visualizations, and digital art where behavior and aesthetics are intertwined. Critics note that ambiguous terminology can obscure scope, while supporters see it as a bridge between design and software engineering.