Claude Code for Designers
Claude Code has evolved from a developer tool into a powerful amplifier for design thinking. Product leaders like Teresa Torres (Continuous Discovery Habits) and Lenny Rachitsky use it daily for research synthesis, documentation, and rapid prototyping—not by becoming developers, but by using natural language to direct an AI assistant that works with their local files. Anthropic's own product designer Meaghan Choi designed Claude Code and uses it despite having no coding background.
This workshop demystifies the command line and establishes Claude Code as an accessible tool for designers. Participants will install Claude Code globally, set up VS Code as their workspace, and run through design-relevant examples including research synthesis workflows and specialized agent configuration.
Pre-Workshop Requirements
- Install VS Code (installation guide provided one week prior)
- Create Anthropic account for Claude Code access
- Fill out the RSVP form linked above
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
✓ Navigate the terminal without fear using basic commands
✓ Open and manage projects in VS Code
✓ Install and run Claude Code independently
✓ Configure specialized agents using claude.md files
✓ Execute research-to-content workflows (markdown research files → generated documentation)
✓ Use natural language prompts to create simple web pages and prototypes
✓ Know where to get help and what to learn next
Participants will NOT master coding in 3 hours. They will gain confidence with technical tools, understand when AI assistance is appropriate, and have a foundation for continued learning.