Wireframing is a model that we use to create content and features of websites and mobile apps before visual design. In this way, we determine the basic structure and research the needs of visitors.
Wireframing is a layout that shows what interface elements will exist on the screen. This is a key part of the interaction design process. The goal is to provide understanding of the website or app to get the design team’s approval before starting visual design. In addition, wireframing can also be used to create global and secondary navigation to provide maximum convenience for future users.
Wireframing is easier than visual design
Wireframing is faster and cheaper way to view and improve the structure of key screens. Development of the wireframes to the final version will provide the client and the design team with confidence that the website or app is tailored to the needs of the user, and thus meets business and design goals.
Wireframing is the initial stage of the project
Wireframing is also used at the beginning of the design process. We use it as a test of the usability to get user feedback before the visual design. Models can be drawn on paper, but it are usually created using a program such as Microsoft Visio. If wireframe must be used to test the usability of prototypes, it is best to create them in HTML. Several such programs are available, e.g. Axure RP or OmniGraffle.
Advantages of wireframing
One of the biggest advantages of wireframing is the fast delivery of layout that can help us in research. Users can also view it as a mechanism for testing the usability of prototypes. You can make changes much faster in wireframes than in conceptual designs. From a practical point of view, wireframes ensure that the layout and its features are tailored to the user and company.
Disadvantages of wireframing
Wireframe do not contain any graphic design. That is why it is very difficult for the client to understand the concept. Designers need to translate a wireframe into a design. For this we need to workshop with a client to explain why the elements of layout are set in a given way.
After adding texts to a layout, it may initially contain too much content. At this point, the collaboration of the designer with the copywriter is very important to refine all the details.
Conclusions
The wireframe should be used at an early stage of the project to help the client accept the layout. This evaluation method is helpful for designers and allows us to move forward. Wireframing save time and money on testing and improving in the later stages of creating.
