Config 2024 is Figma’s annual conference where they unveil new features and updates to their design tools. This year’s highlights include a redesigned Figma Editor (UI3), the introduction of AI capabilities, enhancements to Dev Mode for better collaboration between designers and developers, and Figma Slides for creating interactive presentations. The updates aim to improve usability, streamline workflows, and enhance productivity for UX practitioners, though there are concerns about future costs and the incremental nature of some updates.
Figma’s annual Config conference is always a highly anticipated event, and Config 2024 was no exception. Packed with new features, product announcements, and updates, this year’s conference showcased Figma’s commitment to enhancing the design process. However, while there were many exciting developments, it’s essential to take a critical look at these changes, especially considering the potential costs associated with the new features. Here are the ten key takeaways for UX practitioners from Config 2024.
1. Redesigned UI (UI3): Mixed Reactions
The newly redesigned Figma Editor, called UI3, aims to put craft at the center of Figma Design’s evolution. The changes include usability improvements, such as clearer iconography, optional labels in the properties panel, and rounded corners. Resizable panels and an “anything” button for easy access to AI features are notable enhancements.
Pros:
- Improved usability and ergonomics.
- Customizable canvas with resizable panels.
Cons:
- Some feel these changes could have been achieved with a lighter touch.
- The fixed toolbar at the bottom center might obstruct workflows.
While these changes are generally positive, the slow rollout and potential need to adjust workflows may cause some friction.
2. Figma AI: A Double-Edged Sword
Figma AI introduces a suite of tools designed to streamline the design process. From generating mobile and web UI mocks to renaming layers and removing backgrounds, Figma AI offers significant time-saving potential.
Pros:
- Speeds up routine tasks.
- Enables quick prototyping and content generation.
Cons:
- Currently in beta and usage limits may apply.
- Pricing for Figma AI is yet to be announced, raising concerns about future costs.
The potential efficiency gains are impressive, but the eventual pricing structure could become a burden for teams already managing tight budgets.
3. Dev Mode Enhancements: More Clarity, More Cost?
The updates to Dev Mode aim to facilitate design handoff with new views, statuses, and the introduction of Code Connect.
Pros:
- Clearer process for design handoff.
- New features like Design Status and Ready for Dev View improve workflow visibility.
Cons:
- Adoption depends on buy-in from developers.
- Additional costs may apply for advanced features.
While these updates are beneficial, the dependency on developer collaboration and potential additional costs need to be considered.
4. Figma Slides: A Welcome Addition
Figma Slides introduces advanced editing tools and built-in interactivity, making it easier to design and co-create presentations.
Pros:
- Enables creation of branded, interactive presentations.
- Facilitates team collaboration with built-in chat and audio features.
Cons:
- Scheduled to move from free beta to paid plans in early 2025.
- Starting at $3 to $5 per user/month, adding to overall costs.
This feature could potentially bring users back to Figma from other tools like Canva, but the impending costs could be a deterrent.
5. Auto Layout Improvements: A Game Changer
The updates to Auto Layout include new capabilities and more intuitive interactions, which can save designers a significant amount of time.
Pros:
- Suggests how to apply Auto Layout to multiple frames.
- Enhances efficiency in creating responsive designs.
Cons:
- Existing users adept with Auto Layout may not see much benefit.
- Potential for minor bugs and inconsistencies.
This feature is particularly exciting for those who frequently work with complex, responsive designs.
6. Integrated UI Kits: Convenience at a Cost
The inclusion of Apple iOS and Google’s Material Design 3 UI kits directly in the assets panel is a welcome addition.
Pros:
- Streamlines the design process with ready-to-use components.
- Ensures access to updates for UI kits.
Cons:
- Only available for select plans, adding to subscription costs.
- Limited customization for lower-tier plans.
While the convenience is undeniable, the cost of accessing these features on higher-tier plans could be a drawback.
7. Search by Image and Description: Powerful but Pricey
The new search features allow users to find assets and designs using images and descriptions, which can be incredibly useful for large teams.
Pros:
- Great for locating specific assets and screens.
- Saves time in large projects with extensive libraries.
Cons:
- Available only on select Professional, Organization, and Enterprise plans.
- Potential additional costs for extensive use.
These features enhance productivity but could become expensive for teams with large repositories.
8. Content Suggestions: A Mixed Blessing
Figma’s AI can now suggest content for mock tables and images, which can be a real time-saver.
Pros:
- Eases the burden of content creation.
- Helps maintain consistency in designs.
Cons:
- Quality of AI-generated content may vary.
- Likely to be included in future paid tiers.
While this feature has the potential to streamline workflows, reliance on AI-generated content may not always meet quality expectations.
9. Quality of Life Improvements: Incremental Gains
Updates like the Responsive Viewer and Pages in FigJam aim to improve everyday usability.
Pros:
- Enhances user experience with more intuitive interactions.
- Keeps designs organized and accessible.
Cons:
- Incremental improvements may not justify cost increases.
- Some features might still feel half-baked or underdeveloped.
These updates, while helpful, may not be significant enough to justify any additional costs on their own.
10. The Cost Conundrum: Value vs. Expense
One of the most significant concerns from Config 2024 is the potential increase in costs associated with these new features. While many of these updates bring valuable enhancements to the design process, the cumulative cost of subscriptions and additional features could become prohibitive.
Pros:
- Figma continues to innovate and improve its product offering.
- Many new features can significantly enhance productivity and creativity.
Cons:
- The constant addition of paid features may feel like nickel-and-diming.
- Teams may struggle to justify the increased expenses in their budgets.
While Figma’s innovation is commendable, the pricing model could deter some users from fully embracing the new features.
Conclusion
Config 2024 brought many exciting updates to Figma, but it’s essential to weigh these advancements against their potential costs. For UX practitioners, the new features offer numerous ways to streamline workflows and enhance creativity, but the financial implications cannot be ignored. As Figma continues to evolve, striking a balance between value and expense will be crucial for maintaining user satisfaction and loyalty
