18F Guides

move smart; build things

Building better government services through open source, user-centered design, and agile development

Open by Default

We believe in transparency. Our work is open source, our processes are public, and we share our learnings with everyone.

User-Centered

Every decision we make starts with user needs. We build with users, not just for them.

Iterative Approach

We deliver early and often, learning and improving as we go. Small steps lead to big transformations.

🛠️

Engineering Excellence

Build secure, scalable, and maintainable digital services using modern best practices and open source technologies

📝

Content Strategy

Create clear, accessible, and effective content that helps users accomplish their goals

🎨

Design Systems

Craft consistent, accessible, and user-centered experiences using proven patterns and components

📊

Product Management

Lead successful digital initiatives using agile methodologies and data-driven decision making

🔧

Operations

Ensure reliable, secure, and compliant infrastructure for government digital services

🌟

About These Guides

These principles endure because they're built on bedrock: open source, user-centered design, and agile delivery. No matter which way the wind blows, this foundation stands firm.