What level of Figma expertise do I need for building a mobile app design?
For a professional mobile app, you need intermediate to advanced skills including component systems, auto-layout for responsive design, and interactive prototyping. Basic Figma knowledge won't be sufficient for creating scalable, maintainable designs that work across different screen sizes and can be properly handed off to developers.
How can I tell if a designer actually knows Figma well versus just listing it on their resume?
Ask them to share their Figma files (not just screenshots) so you can see their component organization, naming conventions, and file structure. A skilled user will have clean, organized files with proper component architecture. Also ask them to explain their process for creating responsive designs or complex prototypes - they should be able to walk you through auto-layout, variants, and interactive elements confidently.
Can Figma handle complex animations and micro-interactions, or do I need other tools?
Figma's prototyping can handle many interactions like hover states, transitions, and overlay modals, but it has limitations for complex animations and micro-interactions. For advanced motion design, you'll likely need complementary tools like Principle, Framer, or After Effects. However, Figma is excellent for defining what those interactions should be and creating specs for developers to implement.
How well does Figma integrate with our existing development workflow using GitHub and Slack?
Figma integrates well with development workflows through plugins and direct integrations. You can connect Figma to Slack for design updates, use plugins to sync with GitHub for version control awareness, and export assets directly for developers. The key is having someone who understands how to set up proper handoff processes and maintain design-development alignment throughout projects.
How long does it typically take to set up a complete design system in Figma?
A basic design system with core components, colors, and typography can be set up in 2-4 weeks. A comprehensive system with advanced components, documentation, and team guidelines typically takes 6-12 weeks depending on complexity. Migration from existing designs or other tools adds another 2-4 weeks. The timeline depends heavily on the scope and how many existing designs need to be systematized.
What kind of ongoing maintenance does a Figma design system require?
Design systems need regular maintenance including updating components when new features are added, ensuring consistency across team members' work, and evolving the system as your product grows. Expect to spend 10-20% of design time on system maintenance, plus periodic major updates when you add new product areas or rebrand. You'll also need someone to manage permissions, file organization, and team training as you scale.
