Most Popular Tools for Website Prototyping
Today's prototyping landscape offers plenty of options for every budget and skill level. While some tools are better suited for hi-fidelity visual designs, others excel at quick wireframes and low-fidelity concepts. Here are some of the most popular tools UX designers use for website prototyping:
- Figma - The browser-based Figma is rising in popularity for its real-time collaboration features. Easy to get started with, Figma allows you to design, prototype and gather feedback all in one place.
- Invision - This dedicated prototyping tool allows you to upload designs from Sketch or Photoshop to create interactive clickable prototypes. Invision offers collaboration features and usability testing capabilities.
- Adobe XD - XD is Adobe's prototyping offering, integrating directly with other Adobe programs. XD offers robust prototyping powers such as overlays, repeat grids and component libraries.
- Marvel - For simple linking of screens, Marvel allows you to prototype directly from images. This tool is great for wireframes and early website concepts.
- Proto.io - One of the most full-featured prototyping tools, Proto.io simulates complex interactions like swipes and gestures. It offers high-fidelity prototypes with built-in user testing.
Creating Interactive Website Prototypes
Once you’ve got your website design mapped out, it’s time to start prototyping your key user flows. Here are some tips for creating interactive prototypes that mimic real-world functionality:
- Focus on critical paths - Identify the 2-3 key tasks users will perform and prototype those interaction flows. Resist the urge to prototype every possible pathway.
- Connect screens with hotspots - Link screens together with clickable hotspots to simulate navigation. This allows users to step through the flow.
- Add transitions - Go beyond static screens by adding overlays, animations and transitions to simulate interactivity. This helps make the prototype feel more realistic.
- Use real content - Use actual copy, images and data in your prototypes rather than placeholders. This enables more accurate user feedback.
- Prototype responsive behavior - Show how elements adapt and rearrange across breakpoints. This allows testing designs on desktop, tablet and mobile.
- Validate with user testing - Have representative users perform tasks in your prototype and provide feedback. Uncover usability issues before development.
Tips for Effective Website Prototyping
Here are some best practices to ensure your website prototypes set your project up for success:
- Keep fidelity appropriate - Wireframes are great for early concepts, while hi-fidelity mocks are better for final feedback. Use just enough detail for the stage.
- Update as the project evolves - Prototypes should be living documents that are iterated on throughout the design process as things change.
- Focus on key workflows - Avoid getting bogged down trying to prototype every possible interaction. Prioritize critical user tasks.
- Supplement with annotations - Accompany complex prototypes with annotations explaining interactions and transitions that may be unclear.
- Get stakeholder buy-in - Involve stakeholders early on to ensure the prototype meets business goals and gets their approval before dev hand-off.
The most effective prototypes focus on critical user tasks, incorporate meaningful content, and are tested and refined early and often throughout the web design process. Keeping fidelity appropriate and aligning on goals with stakeholders ensures prototypes provide value. With the right strategy, prototyping enables teams to build better digital experiences.
