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Why we named our design system "Qi"

0 min read
18 Dec 2024

How an ancient Eastern philosophy of vital energy inspired the name of our unified design system.

The Chinese character 'Qi' (氣) in a black brushstroke style on a design grid."Qi" (氣) — the Chinese character for energy — rendered in bold brushstrokes.
⁠After multiple iterations, where we explored the themes of building blocks and bricks, materials and elements, mountains and landscapes, the zodiac, and lunar cycles, we finally realised that we needed to focus on our vast presence in Asia Pacific.Naming our design system "Qi" made perfect sense because the concept of Qi (氣) lies at the heart of Eastern philosophy. This ancient Chinese term represents the vital life force or energy that flows through all things, which is true of our design system.Across Asia, this concept appears in various forms: as "ki" (気) in Japanese culture, "gi" (기) in Korean tradition, and "khí" in Vietnamese philosophy. Each culture has embraced this idea of an invisible force that connects and animates the physical world.The concept is also deeply embedded in traditional practices like qigong and tai chi, where practitioners work with this energy to enhance physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual wellbeing.
Name ideas on sticky notes, clustered around 'Qi' with hearts and thumbs ups.Brainstorming our design system name — "Qi" emerged as the clear favorite.
A definition of 'Qi' in a gold frame hanging on a wall.'Qi' — our design system's name, inspired by the energy that connects everything.

⁠Life force behind our designs

⁠Just as Qi brings life and harmony to the natural world, our design system:
  • Energises our digital products with consistent, purposeful motion and interaction
  • Creates flow between different components and experiences
  • Breathes life into static designs through thoughtful illustrations and photography
  • Connects various elements into a harmonious whole
  • Maintains balance between functionality and aesthetics
Like the concept it's named after, our Qi Design System serves as the vital force that unifies and energises our digital ecosystem, creating experiences that feel both dynamic, on brand, and naturally coherent, firmly cementing us as the leading insurer across Asia.
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