[EPIC] Token System Optimization & Trunk Definition

[GarthDB]

Epic: Token System Optimization & Trunk Definition

Overview

Goal: Define and optimize the "trunk" (core set) of design tokens
Source: On-site Day 3 - major strategic initiative from dependency mapping
Priority: HIGH - addresses core customer pain points
Timeline: Q4 2025 (ESTIMATE for tracking)

Problem Statement (From Customer Research)

Current token system has significant usability issues:

• Difficulty finding the right token
• Overwhelming complexity and volume
• Inconsistent naming conventions
• Poor discoverability and navigation

Strategic Approach (From On-site)

• Trunk vs. Leaves: Define stable core (trunk) vs. platform-specific (leaves)
• Semantic Focus: Reinforce semantic tokens for cross-component reuse
• Optimization not Reduction: Improve usability, may add tokens for clarity
• Multi-platform Support: Core must work for web, iOS, Android, desktop

Implementation Tasks

• Audit current token usage in components
• Map component tokens to semantic tokens
• Create taxonomy for token classification
• Define trunk vs. platform-specific boundaries
• Collaborate with designers and engineers on semantic token definitions
• Create migration path from current to optimized system
• Validate with platform partners
• Document naming conventions and usage guidelines

Key Deliverables

• Comprehensive token audit and usage analysis
• Semantic token taxonomy and naming system
• Trunk definition with clear boundaries
• Migration strategy and timeline
• Updated documentation and guidelines

Dependencies

• Schema improvements (Epic [EPIC] Schema & Data Organization Improvements #603) - enables new taxonomy
• Platform partner collaboration and validation
• Customer pain point analysis (completed)

Success Criteria

• Reduced complexity while maintaining functionality
• Clear semantic token structure for reusability
• Stable trunk that supports all platforms
• Improved discoverability and naming consistency
• Platform teams can extend without breaking core

AI Context

Keywords: trunk, semantic-tokens, taxonomy, optimization, naming, multi-platform
Area: token-system
Priority: HIGH
Dependencies: schema-improvements
Stakeholders: Designers, engineers, all platform teams