Tenets

The following tenets define the core values and guiding principles of the Progress Infra 360 Design System (I3DS). These principles ensure that our design system consistently meets the needs of Progress teams and delivers high-quality, user-centered digital experiences across the Infra 360 product suite.

Question

What is a tenet?

A tenet is a core principle or belief that serves as a guiding foundation for decisions, actions, or strategies within an organization, team, or project. In the context of a design system, tenets provide a set of high-level commitments that help teams align on priorities and values. They serve as a compass, ensuring that everyone involved in developing or using the system is working toward the same goals and upholding the same standards.

For example, a tenet like "Accessibility is Foundational" would mean that accessibility is not just a feature but a core requirement considered in every design choice. Tenets are usually clear, concise, and actionable, providing a framework for maintaining quality, consistency, and alignment within a project or system.

User-Driven Design
We start with real user needs. Through ongoing research, validation, and listening to user feedback, we ensure that I3DS solutions address the right challenges. Without a clear understanding of user requirements, we risk delivering less impactful experiences.
Enable the Right Path
I3DS is designed to make the correct design decisions the simplest ones. Teams should be able to follow best practices, design standards, and accessibility guidelines intuitively, with minimal friction, to produce reliable and cohesive results across the board.
Accessibility is Foundational
Accessibility isn’t optional—it’s core to how we design. Every component, asset, and guideline in I3DS meets or exceeds accessibility standards, ensuring inclusive experiences for all users. Accessibility is embedded from the start of every design process.
Leverage Existing Solutions
We avoid reinventing foundational elements. By building on a common set of proven, reusable components and patterns, we enable teams to focus on their unique missions and users without spending time re-creating standard solutions.
Consistent, Adaptable Design
Consistency fosters familiarity, yet I3DS remains adaptable to the unique needs of each team within the Infra 360 suite. Guidelines are clear but flexible, supporting diverse product requirements while maintaining a cohesive user experience.
Transparency and Collaboration
We are open about our decisions, processes, and updates. By sharing and collaborating across Progress, we continuously improve I3DS and strengthen alignment. Feedback is encouraged, and teams are invited to share insights that enhance the design system for everyone.
Design for Scalability
I3DS is built to scale across multiple products, teams, and contexts. Components and guidelines are designed to meet today’s needs and adapt as new products and features are introduced, ensuring continuity and reliability as the Infra 360 ecosystem grows.
Optimize for Performance
Performance is critical to a seamless user experience. I3DS components are lightweight and efficient, designed to load quickly regardless of the user’s device or network connection. We prioritize streamlined practices to reduce latency and enhance usability.
Support a Diverse Range of Devices
I3DS provides a consistent experience across various devices, from mobile to desktop. Each component is tested and adapted for specific resolutions to deliver a high-quality experience across all target device ranges.
Document and Educate
I3DS is only as effective as its adoption. We include detailed documentation, examples, and best practices to educate and empower Progress teams. Accessible learning resources enable everyone to use the system with confidence and consistency.
Promote Visual and Interaction Standards
Visual and interaction standards build trust and familiarity. I3DS maintains consistency in color, typography, spacing, and behavior across all Infra 360 products, supporting an experience that feels cohesive and intuitive.
Measure and Improve Continuously
We commit to ongoing improvement. I3DS is regularly evaluated based on user feedback, analytics, and accessibility benchmarks to ensure it remains effective and relevant. Data and input from the community drive continuous refinements.
Security by Design
Security is integral to every part of I3DS. Components are developed using secure coding practices and undergo testing to ensure they contribute to the overall security of the Infra 360 ecosystem.
Commitment to Quality and Rigorous Testing Quality is paramount to the success of I3DS. Each component undergoes thorough testing to meet high standards for functionality, accessibility, and performance. By implementing consistent and rigorous testing practices, we ensure that each part of the design system meets Progress’s standards for excellence and reliability, reinforcing confidence across all teams and users.