Design System, Pattern Library, and Style Guide
Design system is a set of design principles, guidelines, and standards that define and solidify a brand identity. It consists of documentations, patterns, brand values and guidelines, which ensure consistency in the implementation of the brand and what it stands for.
Pattern library is a collection of patterns to be used in the design of a particular brand. It encompasses reusable design components, which include static UI elements, such as dropdown menus, navigation, item list, amongst others.
Style guide is a static documentation of rules and standards for the graphic style, which include iconography, typography, grid, margins, color, etc.
Although all three terms are seldom used interchangeably, Pattern libraries and Style guides are actually subclasses of Design systems. However, they are all important in defining a brand, thus ensuring the audience identifies the brand for what it stands for, and building a trusting relationship between the brand and the user.
