Wireframing & Prototyping

Technical Implementation

Professional wireframing and prototyping utilizes industry-standard design tools including Figma for collaborative cloud-based design systems, Adobe XD for comprehensive UX workflows, and Sketch for macOS-native design environments. Wireframe fidelity progresses through low-fi grayscale layouts focusing on information architecture and content hierarchy, mid-fi wireframes introducing interaction patterns and navigation structures, and high-fi wireframes incorporating actual content, spacing systems, and component specifications ready for developer handoff.

Interactive prototype development implements clickable hotspots for navigation simulation, transition animations matching intended development behavior, conditional logic for dynamic content display, and variable-driven state management for realistic user flows. User flow documentation includes comprehensive journey mapping from entry points through conversion goals, decision tree visualization for conditional navigation paths, annotation systems documenting interaction behaviors and business logic, and edge case identification for error states and alternate pathways.

Information architecture deliverables encompass site mapping with hierarchical page structure visualization, content inventory audits categorizing existing content assets, taxonomy development for consistent labeling and categorization systems, and navigation schema optimization for intuitive user pathways. Component libraries establish design systems with reusable UI patterns, maintaining consistency across screens while enabling rapid iteration and modification throughout the prototype development cycle.

Developer handoff specifications include annotated design files with spacing measurements in rem/px units, interaction specifications documenting hover states, active states, disabled states, and loading states, asset export in appropriate formats (SVG for icons, WebP/PNG for images), and comprehensive design tokens documenting color values, typography scales, spacing systems, and breakpoint definitions. Collaboration workflows utilize version control integration, developer inspection mode for CSS extraction, and real-time commenting systems for asynchronous feedback cycles.

What's the difference between wireframes and mockups?

Wireframes are simple layouts showing structure and placement - like architectural blueprints. Mockups add colors, images, fonts, and branding - they look like the final design. We start with wireframes to focus on layout and flow, then create mockups after the structure is approved.

Why should I pay for prototyping before development?

Prototyping catches expensive mistakes early. Making changes to wireframes takes hours, but making the same changes after developers have coded everything takes weeks and costs thousands. Testing prototypes with users before coding saves enormous time and money.

What tools do you use for wireframing?

We primarily use Figma for wireframes and prototypes - it's cloud-based so you can view and comment in real-time. We also use Adobe XD for certain projects. Both tools allow us to create interactive prototypes you can click through like a real website.

Do you do user testing with the prototypes?

Yes! User testing is included in Growth, Professional, and Enterprise tiers. We recruit real users who match your target audience, watch them use the prototype, and identify usability issues before development. This reveals problems you never would have caught otherwise.

How many revisions are included?

Launch includes 2 revision rounds, Growth includes 3, Professional includes 5, and Enterprise includes unlimited revisions. Each revision round means you can request changes to any part of the wireframes or prototype. Additional revisions available if needed.

How long does wireframing and prototyping take?

Timeline depends on complexity. Launch tier (5 wireframes) takes 3-5 days, Growth tier (15 wireframes with prototype) takes 1-2 weeks, Professional tier (30 wireframes with testing) takes 2-3 weeks, and Enterprise tier takes 3-4 weeks. Rush delivery available.

Can I use the wireframes with my own developers?

Absolutely! You own all wireframes and prototypes. We provide complete Figma/Adobe XD files with developer handoff specifications, measurements, and annotations. Your developers can inspect the designs and extract all the information they need.

What's an interactive prototype?

An interactive prototype is a clickable version of your website or app that simulates the real experience. You can click buttons, navigate between pages, fill out forms - everything feels real but it's just a design file. No code required, changes are instant.

Do you do wireframes for mobile apps?

Yes! We create wireframes and prototypes for iOS apps, Android apps, and web apps. Mobile app wireframing includes considerations for touch gestures, app navigation patterns, and platform-specific design guidelines (iOS Human Interface Guidelines, Material Design).

What information do you need to start?

We need your goals, target audience, key features/functionality, content outline, competitor examples you like/dislike, and any existing brand guidelines. A kickoff meeting covers all this. The more information you provide upfront, the better the initial wireframes.

Can wireframes help get stakeholder buy-in?

Yes! Interactive prototypes are perfect for getting buy-in from executives, investors, or team members. They can click through and experience the concept without waiting for development. Much easier to get approval with a working prototype than static documents.

Do you serve clients outside Michigan?

Yes! While we're based in Michigan and proudly serve Birmingham, Livonia, Northville, Detroit, Ann Arbor, and the entire state, we work with clients across the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom. All services available remotely.