In the file: The first 90 days of the Head of DesignOps

Step-by-Step Tutorial: The First 90 Days of the Head of DesignOps

Introduction:

In this tutorial, we will cover the key insights from the video titled "The first 90 days of the Head of DesignOps" by Figma. The video features speakers Salome and Adam discussing their experiences and best practices in the field of DesignOps.

Step 1: Understanding the Listening Tour

• Start by conducting a listening tour within the organization.
• Engage with different teams such as directors, engineers, and product managers.
• Prepare a set of questions and topics to cover during the listening tour.
• Capture insights and synthesize them to create a roadmap for DesignOps initiatives.

Step 2: Implementing the Design Maturity Assessment

• Use a design maturity assessment framework to evaluate the organization's design maturity across various dimensions.
• Identify opportunities and challenges within the organization based on the assessment.
• Synthesize findings and present them to the leadership team for alignment.

Step 3: Creating a DesignOps Charter

• Develop a DesignOps charter that outlines the mission, focus areas, team makeup, and leadership support.
• Align the charter with the leadership team to establish clarity and direction for DesignOps initiatives.
• Utilize the charter as a strategic tool to differentiate DesignOps within the organization.

Step 4: Prioritizing Initiatives and Building a Roadmap

• Prioritize initiatives based on the findings from the design maturity assessment and listening tour.
• Create a roadmap that outlines the prioritized initiatives for the coming quarters.
• Align with the leadership team on the plan and ensure clarity on the prioritization framework.

Step 5: Framing Experiments and Measuring Impact

• Frame experiments based on hypotheses and success criteria to drive new behaviors within DesignOps.
• Define measures of success and track the impact of design efforts on cost savings and customer support.
• Utilize tools like the Design Maturity Index and other frameworks to measure the value of DesignOps initiatives.

Step 6: Adapting to a Remote-First Environment

• Develop a remote-first strategy for DesignOps practices in a virtual setting.
• Establish effective communication channels, documentation processes, and remote collaboration tools.
• Leverage templates, workshops, and facilitation techniques to support remote DesignOps operations.

Conclusion:

By following these steps, you can navigate the first 90 days as a Head of DesignOps effectively, whether in a product company or an agency. Embrace remote-first practices, prioritize initiatives, measure impact, and continuously adapt to drive success in DesignOps.

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide based on the insights shared in the video "The first 90 days of the Head of DesignOps" by Figma.