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Phase 3
Handoff Best Practices to Engineering
Design isn’t finished when the pixels look polished—it’s finished when engineers can confidently build it. This module explores best practices for design-to-engineering handoff: organizing files, documenting details, and ensuring clarity across states, use cases, and assets. Drawing from real-world workflows at Dropbox, Expedia, Cash App, and Lyft, you’ll learn how to prepare clean, consistent, and developer-friendly design specs that reduce friction, avoid ambiguity, and foster collaboration. By the end, you’ll be equipped with both the tools and habits that turn handoff from a “throw it over the fence” moment into a seamless, collaborative process.
Why Handoff Matters
Even the most thoughtful design loses value if engineers can’t interpret it. A great handoff sets engineering up for success by being organized, detailed, collaborative, and consistent.
Core Practices for Effective Handoff
Organize Files Clearly
Create dedicated 'Ready for Dev' pages and use clear labels.
Communicate Use Cases & Flows
Provide happy paths and edge cases, annotating interactions.
Provide Assets and Specs
Ensure all icons, images, and design tokens are available and linked.
Leverage Components & Styles
Use a design system and name styles in developer-friendly terms.
Capture Interactions & States
Document hover, pressed, disabled, and error states clearly.
Build Trust Through Collaboration
Invite engineers into design files early to build shared ownership.
Handoff Checklist
Is the file organized and labeled for clarity?
Are all happy/unhappy paths covered?
Have assets, components, and tokens been linked/documented?
Are interactions and states clearly shown?
Is there room for questions and iteration?
Key Takeaway
A successful handoff is less about perfection and more about preparation and communication. By organizing files, documenting specs, and involving engineering early, designers ensure that ideas translate into working products seamlessly. The goal is not to “throw designs over a wall” but to co-create with engineers—turning handoff into a handshake.