Recently I have been trying to move toward computer generated wireframes because they are a lot cleaner than the mockups I have been sketching out by hand for clients. I have found that these mockups give me a starting place while meeting with the client to markup a game plan or layout changes that may not have been considered initially. Granted, drawing the layout for a project from scratch is still a lot quicker for me, especially if I use SmartDraw or Microsoft Visio that are somewhat clunky.
The other day I had someone recommend Mockingbird to me as an online tool for creating wireframes so I decided to go check it out. I created a free account and within just a few seconds I was able to get up to speed well enough to mockup a future redesign of this website (much needed). It only took me a few minutes and I was able to work from my MacBook while riding down the highway connected to AT&T’s wireless service. With Mockingbird you can also save your project and come back again later to make changes. I think that I might be using Mockingbird a lot more in the future to layout client projects but before I commit 100% to this product I wanted to find out…
What product or solution do you use to wire frame your clients projects?
I use omnigraffle, which is a mac based wireframing app: http://www.omnigroup.com/products/omnigraffle/
I havent used mockingbird so I can't compare the two directly, but omnigraffle works really well for the wireframing I do. There's a 14 day trial, so it's worth a shot.
Awesome, thanks for the information, I will definitely check it out.
Awesome, thanks for the information, I will definitely check it out.
I was waiting to see what people would write. I didn't know these things existed! I thought you would use a graphics program or something to do a mock up. Of course, a sketchpad is always good. I might have to check in to this more.
I actually know some people who just use Illustrator and go from there but for me I like to have as many preset tools as possible. The mockingbird comes with a lot built in.
I've read about Mockingbird but haven't given it a try. I might do so someday soon. For me, the good ole moleskine suffices for me.
I totally understand where you are coming from. I have a moleskin myself that has served it's purpose well, need to order another one actually. I have been moving toward the computer generated wireframes though because they are a little cleaner and i can have them ready when i get to the client meeting and it gives us a great starting point.
I use two different ones currently. One is called iplotz. it is an adobe air based program. and then I also use, mockflow. Ideally what I am looking for is a program where I can work with the client on the internet to actively move stuff around instead of having to create something and then go through 20 email revisions.
Thanks for the suggestions, i will check both of these applications out. I agree completely, effective wireframing creates a visual picture that the client can understand and really goes a long way toward helping a projects requirements get defined.
A wireframe is definitely on my list of things to look at. LOL. Like I said, I didn't realize they existed. I guess I'm kinda late to the game.
Recently I started using Omnigraffle, which works great. I also use Google Docs Drawings which is perfect for a quick scetch and you can collaborate in real time just by sharing your drawing's link. Search for “website wireframe” in Google Docs template gallery. I've found some great ones.
cool, i will have to check that out too. thanks.