Redlining
UX Design
What is Redlining?
Redlining is the process of adding detailed annotations and specifications to design files to communicate precise measurements, spacing, colors, typography, and other design elements to developers. It creates a technical blueprint that bridges design and development.
Why is Redlining Important?
Redlining ensures accurate implementation of designs by providing developers with exact specifications. It reduces back-and-forth communication, prevents interpretation errors, and helps maintain design consistency across the product.
When to Use Redlining
Create redline specifications when designs are finalized and ready for development handoff. It's essential for complex interfaces, design systems, or when working with external development teams who may not have direct access to design tools.
How to Create Redline Documentation
Include specific measurements for spacing and sizing, define color values in appropriate formats (HEX, RGB, HSL), specify typography details (font family, size, weight, line height), and document component states and interactions. Use clear annotation conventions and organize specifications systematically.
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Essential elements include dimensions (width, height, padding, margins), typography specifications (font, size, weight, line height), color values, spacing between elements, component states, grid specifications, and responsive behavior breakpoints.
Modern design tools like Figma, Adobe XD, and Zeplin offer built-in redlining and specification features. These tools can automatically generate measurements and style specifications for developers.
Include all specifications necessary for pixel-perfect implementation, but avoid redundant information. Focus on unique elements and variations rather than repeating specifications for identical components.
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