Design-to-code workflow in Figma - Real Business Scenario

Scenario Mode

👤 Your Role: You are a BI analyst working with the design team

📋 Request: Your manager wants a clear workflow to convert Figma designs into interactive BI dashboards

📊 Data: You have access to Figma design files with dashboard mockups and a BI tool that supports custom visuals

🎯 Deliverable: A step-by-step workflow document that guides from design handoff to coded BI dashboard

Sample Data

Step	Task	Tool/Action	Output
1	Review Figma design	Open design file in Figma	Understand layout and components
2	Export assets	Export icons, images, and colors from Figma	Ready-to-use design assets
3	Define data sources	Identify data tables and fields needed	Data mapping document
4	Create calculated measures	Write DAX or SQL formulas	Measures for KPIs
5	Build visuals	Use BI tool to recreate charts and tables	Interactive dashboard components
6	Apply styles	Match colors, fonts, and spacing from design	Consistent look and feel
7	Test interactivity	Check filters, drilldowns, and responsiveness	Functional dashboard
8	Publish and share	Deploy dashboard to users	Accessible BI report

1

Step 1: Open the Figma design file and review the dashboard layout and components carefully.

Use Figma desktop or web app to inspect frames, layers, and design specs.

Expected Result

Clear understanding of dashboard structure and visual elements.

2

Step 2: Export all necessary assets such as icons, images, and color codes from Figma.

Select assets in Figma and export in PNG, SVG, or CSS formats as needed.

Expected Result

A folder of ready-to-use design assets for the BI tool.

3

Step 3: Identify and document the data sources and fields required to build the dashboard.

List tables, columns, and relationships relevant to the dashboard KPIs.

Expected Result

A data mapping document linking design elements to data fields.

4

Step 4: Create calculated measures using DAX or SQL formulas to compute KPIs shown in the design.

Example DAX: Total Sales = SUM(Sales[Amount])

Expected Result

Accurate calculated measures ready for use in visuals.

5

Step 5: Build the dashboard visuals in the BI tool matching the design layout.

Add charts, tables, and slicers; bind them to data and measures.

Expected Result

Interactive dashboard components that replicate the design.

6

Step 6: Apply styles such as colors, fonts, and spacing to match the Figma design.

Use BI tool theme settings or custom CSS if supported.

Expected Result

Dashboard with consistent look and feel as the original design.

7

Step 7: Test dashboard interactivity including filters, drilldowns, and responsiveness.

Interact with visuals and verify correct behavior on different devices.

Expected Result

Fully functional and user-friendly dashboard.

8

Step 8: Publish the dashboard and share it with stakeholders.

Use BI tool's publishing features and set appropriate access permissions.

Expected Result

Accessible BI report available to intended users.

Final Result

┌───────────────────────────────┐
│       BI Dashboard Flow       │
├─────────────┬─────────────────┤
│ Step        │ Description     │
├─────────────┼─────────────────┤
│ 1. Review   │ Understand design│
│ 2. Export   │ Get assets       │
│ 3. Data Map │ Link data fields │
│ 4. Measures │ Create KPIs      │
│ 5. Build    │ Create visuals   │
│ 6. Style    │ Match design     │
│ 7. Test     │ Check interactivity│
│ 8. Publish  │ Share dashboard  │
└─────────────┴─────────────────┘

Bonus Challenge

Automate the export of design specs and assets from Figma to your BI tool using plugins or APIs.

Show Hint

Explore Figma plugins like 'Figma Tokens' or use Figma REST API to extract design data programmatically.