Icon Genie is a Figma plugin that has decreased time on task for creating production ready icons from 2 hours to less than 5 minutes. Icon Genie was created out of a distinct need that even popular design tools like Figma couldn't individually address.

Our mission was to create a solution that optimizes the workflow for icon designers, specifically targeting keylines and icons (boolean groups and vector networks). The outcome we aimed for was an output that could seamlessly benefit both designers and developers, fostering efficiency and collaboration. Initially conceived as a personal tool, Icon Genie quickly transformed into a project driven by a larger purpose. While it initially catered to a singular designer (myself), our focus shifted towards extending its benefits to the design community as a whole. This change in perspective led us to embark on a journey of constant iteration and improvement.

To accelerate our iteration process, we leveraged the Squircle Icon Set—a concept I had designed—and built a mini design system around it. This encompassed various elements such as color, typography, layout, buttons, and guidelines.

By having this comprehensive framework, we were empowered to adapt and enhance the plugin more rapidly, ensuring a consistent and user-friendly experience for all. In a mere span of three days after its launch, Icon Genie garnered substantial traction. It accumulated over a thousand downloads from the Figma store, and users executed it more than a hundred times. This early success served as a validation of our approach and indicated a genuine demand for a tool that streamlined icon design workflows.

Our commitment to improving the user experience led us to engage with designers who had adopted the Icon Genie plugin. By conducting interviews and actively seeking feedback, we gained valuable insights into how the tool was being utilized in practice. This feedback loop guided us in identifying areas for enhancement, addressing pain points, and making adaptations to cater to diverse design needs.

Icon Genie stands as a testament to our dedication to solving a practical challenge in the design space. Starting as a personal solution, it transformed into a tool that empowers designers across the spectrum. The careful integration of our Squircle Icon Set and the mini design system ensured swift iterations and cohesive experiences. The initial positive response in terms of downloads and executions only reinforced our belief in the necessity and relevance of such a tool. Through continued user engagement and iterative design, we look forward to refining Icon Genie to better serve the design community and promote seamless collaboration between designers and developers.