D3 Daily — Tuesday, July 07, 2026

Product craft is being redefined by AI and design systems, while a new tool called Paper is positioning itself as a Figma competitor. Here is what matters from today's feed.

Today’s Highlights

What is product craft in the age of AI and design systems?

Sidebar.io

A design system can only raise the quality floor. The ceiling is still determined by craft. This piece argues that as AI and design systems automate more of the routine, the definition of craft shifts toward the intentional, the strategic, and the human. Worth reading if you are building a team that relies on both.

Design engineering

Sidebar.io
Inspiration

A clear, historical look at what design engineering is, how it has evolved, and where it is heading. This role sits at the intersection of design and code, and its importance is only growing as tools and expectations become more complex. A good primer for anyone hiring or aspiring to this hybrid role.

Watch out Figma, Paper is coming

Today in Design
Inspiration

Stephen Haney is demoing Paper, a new design tool that is generating buzz. The piece also covers Anthropic shattering benchmarks and Jony Ive connecting with Sam Altman. The design tool landscape is getting interesting again.

What the Lean Startup still teaches us about generative AI

UX Collective
Inspiration

The build-measure-learn loop is not dead. It is more relevant than ever when applied to generative AI products. The article makes a strong case for treating AI features as experiments, not finished products. A reminder that process still beats hype.

The AI Compass

Sidebar.io

15 questions. Two axes. 30 AI archetypes. This interactive tool helps you map your relationship with AI. A quick, useful exercise for understanding where you and your team sit on the spectrum from skeptic to enthusiast.

Quick Hits