Prototyping is no longer optional

The “role” of the designer has been discussed for several years. In the last decade, the design profession has split into several different roles such as graphic designer, UX designer, interaction designer, etc.

Likewise, the design has changed dramatically. We moved from focusing solely on physical / print design to web design and then designing for multiple screen shapes. (In this wonderful article details about this evolution)

The goal and challenge for designers now is to create a delightful experience that works on all types of devices that can be used by the target audience. Designs go through the usual cycle of iteration and testing before being approved by clients or company management.

Until a few years ago (in some cases even now), designs that we created with great love and care were handed over to clients as PDF files. Any design tool offers to convert created designs to PDF or JPG files that you can share. They must be watched in the order in which we sent them. Stakeholders had no way of identifying touchpoints or tracking user flow unless it was separately documented.

Even if they are not our target users, we need to make sure the stakeholder experience is always exceptional

Prototyping has completely changed our communication!

The prototype allows users to interact with what would otherwise be static screens.

It makes the experience more personal and real. Users can access the prototype and interact with it accordingly. Even if it s not a full-fledged prototype with built-in microinteractions, but a simple prototype, it will still be a HUGE step forward in terms of user experience.

Modern design tools allow designers to prototype very quickly

Take for example Invision

Invision, as a tool, is primarily used for prototyping. In the initial versions of the program, designers had to export each created interface screen to an image, and then load each image. Once loaded, they had to go to each screen, create an access point, and then associate it with the subsequent screen. This process continued until all the screens in the prototype were interconnected.

When Invision realized how important prototyping is to the design process, a plugin was introduced Craft… Craft has completely changed the way we prototype. A simple press of the “C” key allows the designer to quickly link artboards to each other and export them to a prototype.

Note to all designers

Make prototyping a part of your process. Whoever you send your screens to – clients for design approval, users for testing, developers; whoever they are, DO NOT give them static screens.

Even if it s a simple click-through prototype, take the time to build it and provide an interactive experience. Designers goal is to offer users the best possible experience, and static screens are no longer suitable

Level up

If you are interested in raising the level of experience for your designs, read the article at the following link to choose the right prototyping tool.

In my first article, I wrote about the power of microinteractions. Here you will find more information on creating interactive prototypes to further improve your product s user experience. Try to build your prototype!