Ever wonder why some parts of design work feel like they change every day, while others barely budge? That’s where Pace Layers come in. Originally from Stewart Brand, this framework breaks systems into layers that evolve at different speeds. Here’s how they affect the lifecycle of interaction design:

Fashion/Technology
This is the surface-level stuff—UI trends, new tools, and frameworks. They’re exciting but short-lived. Think of flat design vs. neumorphism. Stay aware of trends, but don’t overcommit.

Commerce
Business goals and market demands evolve slower but still shift regularly. For example, prioritizing personalization in apps because it boosts sales. Designers must adapt while maintaining consistency.

Infrastructure
This includes design systems, usability standards, and codebases. These layers are more stable, forming the backbone of design work that supports rapid changes above them.

Governance
Policies and platform guidelines move at a crawl but have lasting effects. GDPR, for instance, changed how we think about user privacy—long-term impact, not a quick fix.

Culture/Nature
The deepest layers. Human cognition and cultural norms evolve over decades. Timeless design principles, like simplicity and clarity, live here and remain central regardless of trends.

    Why It Matters

    Good interaction design balances these layers. Trends keep work fresh, but stability and cultural alignment make it meaningful and lasting. Recognizing these layers helps us prioritize what matters most for designs that stand the test of time.