What are the best practices for version control in UX design tools?

1 Choose a suitable UX design tool

Not all UX design tools have the same features and capabilities for version control. Some tools, such as Figma or Sketch, have built-in version control systems that allow you to save, restore, and compare different versions of your files, as well as collaborate with others in real time. Other tools, such as Adobe XD or InVision, require you to integrate with external version control services, such as GitHub or Dropbox, to manage your files and sync your changes. Depending on your project needs and preferences, you should choose a UX design tool that supports the level of version control you require, and that integrates well with your existing tools and platforms.

2 Organize your files and folders

One of the key aspects of version control is to keep your files and folders organized and structured, so that you can easily find, access, and update them. You should follow a consistent naming convention for your files and folders, and use descriptive and meaningful names that reflect the content and purpose of your designs. You should also group your files and folders according to logical categories, such as project name, design stage, feature, or component. Additionally, you should avoid duplicating or deleting files and folders unnecessarily, as this can create confusion and inconsistency in your version history.

3 Commit and comment your changes

Another important aspect of version control is to commit and comment your changes regularly and clearly, so that you can track and document the progress and evolution of your designs. A commit is a snapshot of your files at a specific point in time, that you can save and restore later. A comment is a short message that you attach to your commit, that explains what you have changed and why. You should commit your changes frequently and incrementally, and use clear and concise comments that summarize your changes and provide context for your decisions. This way, you can create a detailed and coherent version history of your designs, and make it easier for yourself and others to review and revert your changes if needed.

4 Branch and merge your designs

Another useful feature of version control is to branch and merge your designs, which allows you to create and test different variations of your designs without affecting the main version. A branch is a copy of your files that you can modify independently from the original version, and a merge is a process of combining your changes from one branch to another. You can use branching and merging to experiment with new ideas, explore different scenarios, or work on different features or components of your designs. You can also use branching and merging to collaborate with other designers or developers, and to resolve any conflicts or discrepancies that may arise from your changes.

5 Backup and sync your files

The last but not least best practice for version control in UX design tools is to backup and sync your files regularly and securely, so that you can protect your work from loss or damage, and access it from anywhere and any device. You can backup and sync your files using cloud-based services, such as Google Drive, iCloud, or OneDrive, or using local or external storage devices, such as hard drives, USB drives, or CDs. You should backup and sync your files at least once a day, or more often if you make significant changes to your designs. You should also encrypt and password-protect your files, and use reliable and reputable services or devices to store and transfer your files.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?