They’re not colourful, or flashy — there are no pictures — they don’t move or make sound — at first glance, they may even seem quite boring. However, when it comes to wireframes, the beauty is in the functionality and they play a vital role in the digital design process.
What are wireframes?
Wireframes are like a blueprint, they outline the structure and functionality of a web page or app interface. They are typically low fidelity, meaning they have minimal visual details, usually black and white and a composition of boxes and placeholder text.
When are wireframes executed?
The wireframe stage happens after the sitemap and before design. The sitemap determines the information architecture of the web page or app and outlines the number of pages and templates required.
Sitemap informs wireframes.
Wireframes allow the designer to think about page structure, information architecture, user flow and functionality without getting bogged down with colour and font decisions.
Wireframes inform design.
What’s the difference between a wireframe and design mockup?
Wireframes are the framework for design. They do not take into account colour, typography, graphics or imagery.
What do we love about wireframes?
Feedback
Presenting wireframes to a client allows us to collect valuable input and feedback regarding user patterns, navigation and functionality.
Efficiency
Eliminating the need to design in detail and focus only on the form and function, means iterations can be made quickly and multiple formats can be tested.
Accuracy
Well executed wireframes result in comprehensive design, allowing the designer to focus on impactful and effective interface choices that best support the functionality.
Do you have a project that could use a wireframe? Let’s chat.
