Patterns
Patterns are reusable solutions to common design problems. They show how
to combine components and content to help users complete specific tasks.
! Warning Patterns are currently in development. Check back soon for proven design
solutions for government services.
What are patterns?
Patterns are best practice design solutions for specific user-focused
tasks and page types. They combine components, content design principles,
and interaction design to solve common problems in government services.
Unlike components, which are individual interface elements, patterns show
how to use multiple components together to create complete user journeys
and workflows.
Examples of patterns include:
- Form validation - How to validate user input and show error
messages effectively
- Data entry workflows - Step-by-step processes for collecting
complex information
- Dashboard layouts - Organising data visualisations and key
metrics for different user needs
- Search and filtering - Helping users find and refine large
datasets
- Progressive disclosure - Revealing information gradually
to avoid overwhelming users
- Data export and sharing - Allowing users to download or
share data in various formats
Patterns for data-rich services
The MHCLG Svelte Component Library will focus on patterns specifically
designed for data-rich government services, including:
Data presentation patterns
- Interactive charts and graphs
- Data tables with sorting and filtering
- Geographic data visualisation
- Real-time data displays
User interaction patterns
- Data exploration workflows
- Comparison and analysis tools
- Collaborative data annotation
- Accessibility-first data interaction
Contributing patterns: If you have a proven design solution
that could benefit other government teams, we'd love to hear from you.
Get in touch with our community to discuss contributing patterns to the library.
Using patterns with components
Patterns will show you how to combine our Svelte components with
content design and interaction principles to create effective user experiences.
Each pattern will include:
- When to use - Specific scenarios where the pattern is most
effective
- How it works - Step-by-step guidance on implementing the
pattern
- Code examples - Working Svelte implementations you can copy
and adapt
- Accessibility considerations - How to ensure the pattern
works for all users
- Research insights - Evidence and user research supporting
the pattern
Stay updated
We're actively developing patterns based on real user needs and research
from across government. Follow our progress and get notified when new
patterns are released: