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Lighthouse Design System

A Unified Vision for Delaware’s Common Look and Feel

Delaware’s Government Information Center (GIC) leads the State’s Common Look and Feel (CLF) guidelines, ensuring a consistent, accessible experience across agency websites.

Over 25 years, the CLF has evolved to meet changing standards and user expectations. Lighthouse builds on that foundation with a comprehensive, service-driven design system that enhances usability, strengthens accessibility, and helps agencies keep content updated.

Lighthouse has its foundation in analytics, surveys, user testing, and accessibility research. These insights informed our design decisions to improve engagement and ensure visitors can quickly reach their agency-specific goals.

Lighthouse design system logo- an image of a lighthouse

Lighthouse Integration

Agencies supported by the GIC should sign up with the button below to be placed on our waiting list. Get a head start by taking some steps to review your content first.

Agencies working with other vendors should utilize the Lighthouse library for open-source samples, code, and style guidance.

What Is Lighthouse?

Lighthouse is design system. A design system is a collection of reusable, accessibility-tested web components and templates that create consistent layouts across platforms and websites.

While earlier CLF guidance focused primarily on shared headers and footers, Lighthouse extends cohesion across entire page layouts.

It provides Delaware-branded templates, curated color palettes, and strategic components that promote efficiency, accessibility compliance, and a unified user experience.

Key Elements and Components of Lighthouse:

Easy to Use

Reusable HTML components designed for seamless integration with WordPress templates

Fully Accessible

All Lighthouse elements and components meet or exceed WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards.

Full Catalog of Components

Accordions, buttons, bulleted lists, form field inputs, and more!

Curated Colors

Color palettes selected to avoid accessibility issues related to contrast or other visual impairments.

Guidance

Research-driven design and content guidance

How Lighthouse Benefits Agencies

Simplified Navigation

Accessibility-compliant components and structured layouts make services easier to find and use.

Content-Focused Design

Lighthouse helps agencies prioritize high-value services and pages. Flexible, plug-and-play components allow teams to focus on clear messaging.

A Trusted Delaware Brand

A consistent visual identity across state websites reinforces trust, credibility, and familiarity.

Easy to Adopt

Lighthouse integrates within WordPress and supports third-party implementations through available code files and documentation. GIC provides ongoing guidance and support.

Illuminate Your Digital Journey

Lighthouse strengthens Delaware’s digital presence through accessible design, research-based decisions, and a unified brand experience. Contact the GIC to learn more about available digital services and support.