The Australian Government Design System is a suite of components intended to provide a consistent and reliable user experience. As it has been decommissioned, its components still hold value for developers who are interested in creating standardized interfaces. This blog will guide you through the installation and utilization of these components, ensuring that your journey is smooth and straightforward!

Documentation

For detailed information, you can access the official documentation at designsystem.gov.au.

Installation

Before diving into the installation process, you need to meet certain prerequisites.

Prerequisites

• You need to have npm installed on your machine.
• Ensure that your Node.js version is 8 or higher.
• If you are unfamiliar with npm and prefer a simpler approach, visit the download page to select and download the components manually.

Installing Modules

Your first step is to create a package.json file. You can generate one by running npm init.

To install a module, execute the following command in your project folder:

npm install @gov.au/body

To install multiple modules simultaneously, use this syntax:

npm install @gov.au/body @gov.au/header @gov.au/footer @gov.au/buttons

Understanding the Code with an Analogy

Imagine assembling a LEGO set. You start with a base plate (your package.json) where all your pieces (modules) will fit. Each individual LEGO piece represents a module, such as @gov.au/body for the body structure or @gov.au/buttons for the interactive components. When you snap these pieces together efficiently, they create a robust and cohesive design—just like using the components of the design system to build a user-friendly interface.

Troubleshooting

While installing and using the design system components, you might encounter some challenges. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• If you experience issues with the installation, ensure your Node.js and npm versions are properly configured.
• Check if the package is correctly listed in your package.json file.
• In case of component failures, refer to the GitHub repository for potential issues or community support.

For more insights, updates, or to collaborate on AI development projects, stay connected with fxis.ai.

Frequently Asked Questions

For common questions, refer to the frequently asked questions page. If you don’t find your answer there, feel free to email us at designsystem@dta.gov.au or join our conversation on Slack.

Checklist and Browser Support

To maintain quality, components must undergo a rigorous checklist. Ensure checks include:

• All elements use semantic HTML.
• Accessibility is prioritized (e.g., color contrast and screen reader testing).
• Compatibility with major browsers, including Internet Explorer 8-11 and the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, and Safari.

Conclusion

Utilizing the Australian Government Design System components can streamline your development process while promoting a consistent user experience. Remember, thorough testing and adherence to best practices ensure your components shine and are accessible to all.

At fxis.ai, we believe that such advancements are crucial for the future of AI, as they enable more comprehensive and effective solutions. Our team is continually exploring new methodologies to push the envelope in artificial intelligence, ensuring that our clients benefit from the latest technological innovations.