A wireframe is a sketch of the key information that goes on each page of a website, essentially showing the site or page’s “skeleton”. Designers can then use this sketch as a starting point for laying out a website.
Why do you need Wireframes?
- Wireframes help designers get their message across in an easy-to-understand visual way. They are able to demonstrate different user journeys and examples of displaying different kinds of content.
- They are useful in finding out the initial major issues that can occur with a website’s usability.
- If done correctly, they can save a lot of time and corrections later as they are easy to critique and provide immediate feedback that can quickly be included in the design.
At what stage is a wireframe made?
A wireframe should be designed at the very beginning of the design process. This will allow the designers to efficiently finalise the hierarchy, website structure and basic usability with quick delivery or iterations.
Who is a wireframe used by?
A wireframe is made by the UX designer early on in the design process. During the design process they will be shown to the clients, UI designers and developers. UI designers will then put all the colours and images in place, according to the wireframe, to create a mockup and high-fidelity prototype. Lastly, the Developers use the wireframes, mockups and prototypes to build the final product.
