Early on in the user interface (UI) design process, you’ll likely need to design a wireframe. Wireframing is critical for visualizing what your product will look like for the end-user.
Key Facts About Wireframing
Even now, some people continue to use pencil and paper to wireframe their apps and websites. However, the vast majority of designers wireframe with software. Training and support are key considerations for wireframing software. Software is much more useful if it has an extensive user community. Tutorials and interactive forums help new users master software quickly.
Additional Factors to Look For In Wireframing Software
Your wireframing tool needs will vary depending on your specific situation. If you are working with a team, you’ll naturally want to secure wireframing software with plenty of collaborative features. All of the best wireframing tools share core qualities. Nevertheless, each one of them has its own unique emphasis. Here are four of the best wireframing software tools available today.
1. Terrastruct
Terrastruct is specifically tailored towards software engineering and software architecture. This tool allows you to split diagrams into multiple layers so that viewers can easily digest complex designs. With this type of setup, it’s easy to see the big picture as well as each design detail. Though this is a great wireframing app, it is a bit on the technical side.
2. Cacoo
If you’re interested in real-time collaboration, Cacoo should prove useful for you. This tool integrates flowcharts, wireframes and a unique type of chart called the mind map. Cacoo comes with a large library of templates and shapes to get you’re started on a new design quickly. Cacoo’s 14-day free trial period may seem a bit short for some. Still, larger design teams may find Cacoo’s collaborative tools deeply enticing.
3. Adobe XD
Adobe is the oldest and most prestigious software company represented on this list. You may well be familiar with at least one Adobe product. For decades now, Adobe has dominated multimedia editing for users of Microsoft Windows. Released in 2017, Adobe XD is a great UI editor that includes a full suite of prototyping capabilities. XD employs vector graphics to create wireframes with varying levels of complexity.
Because it is an Adobe product, XD is compatible with the influential Adobe software ecosystem. Best of all, you can permanently use the full version of Adobe XD for free. Unquestionably, this is one of the best free wireframe tools available today. Crucially, you can access plenty of XD tutorials, guides, and training materials. Adobe XD Ideas is a large, multi-faceted content hub you can use to develop your XD skills quickly.
4. Sketch
With its 90 days free trial, Sketch is fairly generous to new users. Sketch offers all of the essential features you would expect in this type of software. Furthermore, Sketch features an interface that is easy to grapple with and understand quickly.
All wireframing software should have an intuitive UI of its own. The software should feature clear displays and easy navigation for the new user.