Level 1
Is able to sketch, wireframe and prototype basic user interface (UI) features.
Accessibility: You have a basic knowledge of accessibility principles.
Creating & using design systems: You understand the basics of design systems, and are able to create simple components which are consistent with other components in the system.
Design detail: You have some experience working with design teams, with a focus on implementing design assets and style guides.
Level 2
Can lead wireframe and prototype design efforts. Can collaborate with engineers and product managers to define UI requirements.
Accessibility: You have a good understanding of accessibility principles and can identify where they are missing in design work.
Creating & using design systems: You are able to create wide ranging components which are consistent with other components in the system.
Design detail: You are able to communicate in detail about the design of a product, and can implement design assets and style guides. You understand the balance between pixel perfect designs and speed of shipping.
Level 3
Is able to design UI solutions quickly, in response to business need. Collaborates with engineers to design the most appropriate solution, balancing UX considerations with business objectives.
Accessibility: You have a deep knowledge of accessibility principles and how people with disabilities may interact with the product.
Creating & using design systems: You are able to create and modify any component used in the product, using elements from design systems and the most up to date front-end practices.
Design detail: You are able to identify gaps in the design of a product, and make recommendations for how to improve it. You lead wide ranging projects on smoothness of design ensuring the user experience is consistently prioritised.
Level 4
Designs the UI for applications and websites by considering customer needs, business requirements and engineering constraints. Is able to mentor junior members of the team in UI design.
Accessibility: You are a go-to expert for accessibility, advising on design decisions that need to be made.
Creating & using design systems: You are able to create an entire component library from scratch, using elements from design systems and typically following modern front-end patterns.
Design detail: You can manage multiple projects simultaneously, and are able to identify potential risks in design that could jeopardise the success of the project.
Level 5
Is a recognised leader on UI design, shaping the customer experience through design excellence. Leads the organisation in establishing UI standards across all products and customer touchpoints.
Accessibility: You lead accessibility work across the organisation and are an expert on how people with disabilities interact with our product.
Creating & using design systems: You lead the organisation in creating and maintaining the design system. You constantly seek best practice and lead other members of the team in integrating these practices into your work.
Design detail: You lead on all aspects of design implementation, including identifying gaps in customers' needs and matching these needs to design decisions. Is able to communicate confidently in detail about the design process.