👉 Read this first: Canopy requests process and template

[alexcanning]

Introduction

Before you begin, make sure you're familiar with the governance process that Canopy operates for creating patterns and components:

Note: This process does not cover bugs in Canopy, which should be reported via https://github.com/Legal-and-General/canopy/issues.

Why does this process exist?

We created this process to encourage reuse or improvement of existing components, and to make sure that anything new is built according to Canopy standards and has had proper oversight. We hope to avoid sprawl of design system elements, and most importantly maintain consistency throughout the experiences we enable.

How long does it take?

We aim for an initial response time of < 1 day to acknowledge your request. Simple requests may get approval within that time and complex requests are likely to take longer.

We know this process can add extra time to your development process, as it's necessary for us to take time to consider the implications of your change. However, we hope this pain won't be felt too often and balanced by the time saved through reuse of existing Canopy components.

How to make a request

If you're on this page, it's likely you've already decided you need to build a new component or pattern in Canopy. Before you do, make sure you have:

1. Checked Canopy for existing components
2. Met with members of your team to discuss requirements and technical feasibility

When you're ready to create a new request, go to https://github.com/Legal-and-General/canopy/discussions/new?category=canopy-requests and use this template to write your request:

Discussion title

[New / Modification] - Element name

Discussion body

**Type of request**
New / Modification

**Component, pattern, template, helper or foundation?**
Component / Pattern / Template / Helper / Foundation

**Nature of request**
(Include details such as why you need the new element or change to Canopy, how you intend to design and build it etc.)

What happens next?

The Canopy core team will review the request and may either:

• Suggest improvements to the proposal
• Approve the request - you can proceed to design
• Direct you to use an existing component or pattern
• Suggest improving an existing component or pattern

After this, the Canopy core team will work with you to provide support and guidance while your team designs and builds the component or pattern. Please refer to the process diagram for a complete outline of the process.