Figma co-founder Dylan Field delivers a powerful message: “Question what seems perfect.” His philosophy on business development offers valuable lessons not only for the design industry but for all startups. Through Field’s story, we can learn how to respond proactively to change, break free from existing norms, and achieve innovation. Remember, the perfection we often seek can sometimes be the greatest obstacle.
1. Question Systems That Seem Perfect
We must question systems that seem too perfect. Break them, stress test them, and learn from the process.
This is the first lesson from Dylan Field that led Figma to success. Field recognized that existing design tools were overly rigid and emphasized the importance of breaking away from these norms to innovate. Through Figma, he opened up new avenues for users to collaborate in ways that brought significant changes to the design industry.
For instance, unlike traditional desktop-based tools, Figma was developed as a web-optimized collaboration tool. This approach was possible because Field questioned the concept of “perfection.” Remember, systems that seem perfect can often be enemies of innovation.
2. Create Tools Truly Suited for the Web
It was crucial that we didn’t just transfer existing tools to the web, but instead created something genuinely suited for the web.
Field didn’t simply follow existing methods when developing Figma. He emphasized that true innovation lies in breaking away from old frameworks and exploring new possibilities.
Figma, as the first web-based design tool, opened up collaboration possibilities that were previously unimaginable. This was a result of Field’s consideration of both technical challenges and user experience. He didn’t aim for what people considered “perfect,” but instead focused on finding user-centered solutions.
3. Develop Around Customer Needs
People often create what they want, only to realize that it’s not what others need when it’s brought to market.
This lesson from Field is one that every startup should take to heart. Throughout Figma’s development, he continuously incorporated customer feedback, striving to create a tool that users truly needed.
Field realized that no matter how good an initial idea might be, it means nothing if it doesn’t meet users’ needs. During Figma’s development, he iterated on the initial idea through multiple rounds of feedback and testing, ultimately creating a tool that users genuinely needed. Never forget that listening to customers is key to success.
4. Take Risks
The greatest risk is taking no risks at all. In a world that changes too quickly, the only guaranteed failure is the strategy of taking no risks.
Field emphasized the importance of embracing change and wasn’t afraid to try new ideas during Figma’s development. Instead of making safe choices, he led Figma to success through bold challenges.
This mindset offers a crucial lesson in today’s rapidly changing market. Field’s experience shows that startups must take risks and should not fear forging new paths to achieve success.
5. Start with a Vision
We started with nothing. No users, no product, not even a prototype. But we had a vision.
Field reflects on the early stages of Figma. He emphasizes that a clear vision was the driving force that helped them overcome all difficulties and keep moving forward.
A vision means more than just setting goals; it provides the motivation to keep going during tough times and the power to move forward. Field’s vision played a crucial role in helping Figma overcome many challenges in its early stages and ultimately achieve success. Remember, a clear vision is key to success.
Conclusion
Dylan Field’s philosophy on business development offers essential lessons for all entrepreneurs and business developers. He questioned systems that seemed perfect, focused on customer needs, and was not afraid to take risks. These mindsets played a critical role in making Figma an innovative tool. Use these lessons to open up new possibilities in your business.