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Recently more and more designers have discussed whether wireframes and early versions of a website or app should be created with code, or with the use of a prototyping tool. For some developers, using prototyping software that doesn’t produce code is a waste of time, whereas others swear by this method. This article will look at how designers and other stakeholders use prototyping tools and the benefits these can have over creating prototypes with code. What are prototyping tools? Prototyping tools are applications that can be used to create drafts of the user interfaces of websites and mobile apps. There are many types of prototyping tools available and these can often be used by those who have no technical background. Some applications can be used to create detailed mockups of the graphic design - others are used by UX design experts and are used primarily to plan interactive elements of an application. There are some prototyping tools where mockups can be simulated on an end device for user-testing. The benefits of prototyping tools and design Often it can help at the beginning of a project to create several mockups of a website design. This can be in the form of paper wireframes or in more detail in digital form. For most people, it is quicker to create a basic prototype before programming – this means that there is more time for designers to create several different options for their team to choose. For non-technical stakeholders, it can also be useful to create mockups, so they can show through images how they would like the application to be, or can offer an alternative to what has been suggested. Prototyping in teams By beginning coding early on, developers and designers are much more focused on the information architecture of the application and possibly also the backend of the system. For others in the team, however the business requirements and user experience are more important. By enabling each of these team members to have input into the design, they can take joint control of the design process and aren’t dependent on a programmer. What’s more, amendments can often be made in the tool itself if there are collaboration features. With the help of prototyping tools therefore, teams can communicate more effectively on their projects. Conclusion While prototyping tools cannot replace coding a website or coding application, they can still serve many functions that can save time in the development process of a project. Working in teams, there can be benefits to communication and collaboration, which can save in redesign costs at a later date. Ultimately what’s most important is that all stakeholders can create an application that meets their main requirements. Prototyping tools can give people the freedom to make these compromises early on, rather than when coding has already taken place. ====================
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Pidoco.com – Interface Design, Wireframe Software, Wireframes, Interface Design Software, Prototyping tools , Clickable Wireframes, Interface Design Tool, Usability Testing and Digital Paper Prototyping.
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