Atomic design is a methodology that conceptualizes web development and design as a series of building blocks, much like the molecular structure in chemistry, where small components (atoms) combine to form more complex systems (molecules and organisms) to efficiently create web pages. This approach, pioneered by Brad Frost, allows designers and developers to isolate and reuse elements, fostering consistency, improving iteration, and simplifying communication across teams. By structuring these elements into a cohesive system, design systems enhance collaboration and speed up future updates, as changes made to a single component automatically propagate throughout the entire project. Tools like Prismic, a headless CMS, complement atomic design by enabling content teams to dynamically build pages using predefined templates and components, further streamlining the process. The methodology not only aids in creating maintainable and scalable designs but also integrates seamlessly with development frameworks such as React, facilitating a unified workflow between design and development.