| Do | Always pass a name so the avatar can show initials if the photo fails to load, and so screen readers can announce who it represents. |
| Do | Pick a size that matches the context: tiny or xsmall for inline mentions, small or medium for lists and cards, large for profile headers. |
| Do | Add a status dot when knowing someone's availability matters, like in chat or team views. |
| Don't | Use Avatar for logos, product images, or anything that isn't a person or team. Use an image or icon instead. |
| Don't | Force a square or custom shape. Avatars are always circular to stay consistent across the system. |