How Ramp and Plaid create a culture of craft💡

This episode explores how top design teams at companies like Ramp and Plaid cultivate a culture of meticulous design. Against this backdrop, the discussion highlights the challenges of relying solely on weekly design critiques, which often lead to superficial feedback and a focus on presentation over substance. More significantly, the podcast presents solutions implemented by these companies: Ramp uses "truth-seeking pods" – small, informal groups providing frequent, honest feedback – while Plaid emphasizes the "garage door open" approach, encouraging early and continuous feedback throughout the design process. For instance, Plaid's "Polish Reviews," a late-stage review by a dedicated panel, ensures attention to detail and elevates the entire team's design skills. This open feedback culture not only improves design quality but also fosters collaboration and shared ownership among team members. Ultimately, the episode reveals how these strategies contribute to a higher standard of design craft and product quality, offering valuable insights for other design organizations.