During Build 2017, Microsoft introduced its new design language, the Fluent Design System. Microsoft's new venture immediately reminded me of Google's three-year-old Material Design initiative.
King Solomon, who is renowned for his profound wisdom, wrote: "There is no new thing under the sun. That which has been is that which will be."
This ancient King certainly didn't have the design systems of competing tech companies in mind when he penned that, but the principle of what he shared applies. Microsoft's Fluent Design System isn't an entirely new idea, though it looks as if it provides developers with an excellent framework to guide the development for consistent and great user experiences across devices. Just like Google's Material Design does.
I know some Microsoft fans would prefer it if all of Microsoft's ventures found inspiration only within the confines of Redmond's halls. Tech companies (most companies, for that matter) exist within a cyclic existence of perpetual mutual "inspiration," however. Microsoft has had its share of inspiring "firsts," such as a smartphone platform and Windows on a tablet.
Live Photos, 3D Touch, Universal Apps: Apple hijacks Microsoft's lingo
In the case of Fluent Design, however, Microsoft may be doing the following with its twist on an established concept, of course.
Full story from the WindowsCentral blog...