in effect
Executive Order 14338, signed August 21, 2025, directs the federal government to improve the design and usability of its digital and physical public-facing services. It creates a new initiative called “America by Design” and establishes two new offices inside the White House to lead that effort.
A National Design Studio (NDS) is created within the White House Office of the Executive Office of the President, led by an Administrator who reports to the White House Chief of Staff. A new Chief Design Officer position is established inside the NDS to recruit design talent, coordinate with federal agencies, and guide implementation. All agency heads are required to consult with the Chief Design Officer and produce initial redesign results by July 4, 2026, prioritizing websites and physical locations that most directly affect Americans’ daily lives. The General Services Administration must update the U.S. Web Design System to align with the order’s policies. A temporary organizational unit within the NDS is authorized under federal law and will automatically expire three years from the order’s signing date (August 21, 2028).
Federal agencies are directly required to coordinate with the new NDS, use available hiring authorities to bring in outside design talent, and work toward compliance with the 21st Century Integrated Digital Experience Act. Members of the public who use government websites or visit federal facilities may see updated visual design and improved usability as agencies implement the initiative. Private-sector designers and design firms may be recruited to serve in or consult with the federal government under existing intergovernmental personnel hiring authorities.