Designed the Figma Community plugin marketplace from zero — the discovery, installation, and management experience used by 4M+ designers. Shipped in 14 weeks from initial concept to GA.
Figma had launched an API for third-party plugins but had no official marketplace. Plugins were discovered through blog posts and Slack communities, creating a fragmented, trust-deficient experience. Plugin adoption was 8% of active users — well below the target of 30%.
Design a first-party plugin marketplace within Figma's existing UI that allows discovery, one-click installation, and plugin management — without leaving the design canvas.
Ran a 2-day design sprint with PMs, engineers, and 6 external plugin authors. Mapped 3 key user journeys (discover, install, manage). Designed 4 competing concepts, tested with 15 users, converged on the panel-within-canvas pattern. Worked in weekly design review cycles with the Figma CEO. Delivered Figma files, interaction specs, and an accessibility audit.
Plugin adoption reached 31% of active users within 60 days of launch. 2,000+ plugins listed in the first month. Featured in The Verge, Fast Company, and Design Milk. Became the foundation for the broader Figma Community product.
Days to GA
98 days
Press Coverage
The Verge, Fast Company
Plugins at Launch
2,000+
Plugin Adoption (60 days)
8% → 31%