From Project.zip to Purposeful.zip: Simplifying Batch Exports in Figma
Have you ever exported a batch of files from Figma, only to find your downloads folder flooded with `project.zip`, `project (1).zip`, and `project (2).zip`? It’s not exactly chaos, but it’s close.
It got me thinking — what if we could name those zip files before downloading them? It’s a tiny tweak, but maybe it could smooth things out. Curious, I decided to prototype an idea. Here’s a quick look at the problem, the solution I came up with, and how it might fit into Figma’s design flow.
How It Works Today
Let’s start with a quick look at how Figma handles batch exports right now
You select multiple files.
Figma packages them into a zip file and names them after the project.
That’s it — zip file downloaded.
Simple, sure. But when you’re working on the same project for weeks and exporting files repeatedly, it’s easy to lose track of which zip is which.
A Little Experiment
What if you could name your zip file before downloading it? No more wrestling with a string of identical, auto-generated names — just the freedom to label your exports exactly how you want.
What I came up with was simple — name (or don’t name) your selected group of assets directly from the export panel.
Select your assets and make your way to the export panel.
Edit the default file name or leave it as is.
Click export and the zip file is downloaded with your custom name.
Why Explore This?
For frequent exporters — like teams delivering multiple rounds of assets or revisions — this feature might:
Save time by skipping manual renaming.
Help keep files organized without extra effort.
Make finding the right zip later much simpler.
Prototyping the Idea
Creating the prototype was a fun challenge. I wanted to keep it lightweight, optional, and true to Figma’s clean design system. Here’s how I approached it:
Identified the problem from personal experience (and shared frustrations).
Keep the solution simple: an optional naming step with a pre-filled field.
Built a prototype in Figma itself, refining it with feedback from other designers.
What Do You Think?
I love what’s being done at Figma and whether we see something like this implemented in the future or not, I’m glad I got to scratch this itch — exploring a small enhancement that could make a big difference.
Let me know if you’ve thought of this too or what other wacky ideas haunt your sleep.
Till next time 👋🏾 …
Originally posted Here