Is wireframe creation a waste of time? 📐
Numerous specialists throw wireframes "under a bus", unjustly stating that these basic layouts are too primitive and aren't worth the time.
This misunderstanding can partially be explained by the fact that wireframes are miles away from the final mockup that mirrors the product you'll release.
But what many fail to realize is that the purpose of wireframes is different. This step is essential if you want to clarify various aspects of the future product's design as early as possible. They align teams and outline the intended functionality, navigation, and user flows.
Wireframes also enable you to identify what content matters and why each element is even there on the screen. With them, you prioritize usability and address flaws early in the process. Not to mention that they set the stage for easier prototyping and mockup creation.
For more info on how to create wireframes, when they are applicable, and which tools to choose, here's a resource ⤵
https://www.upsilonit.com/blog/what-is-wireframing-and-its-role-in-product-development
As a FrontEnd developer, I can say that wireframes save time ahead. I usually get the design done to work, created by a designer specialist. But when I don't have a designer on my team, I typically create simple wireframes with Excalidraw. It helps me visualize the solution first and validate it with other developers, stakeholders, and product managers before I start working on it. Generally, I receive a lot of feedback and insights into my solution, even before I code it. Sometimes, it makes you even consider that it wouldn't work as well as you expected, and you can be relieved because you haven't spent time coding that yet.
But it can be a trap! Avoid spending too much time tinkering with the wireframe. It's only a draft to validate the idea/flow/feature you are developing.
Agree! You're totally right!
I think they are defenitely worth the time investment, they are not difficult to make
That's true!
As a Chief Product Officer of (our) Startup(still in development),
I can say Wireframe set the basics of essential design, it's not cakewalk to Wireframe but wireframing prepares the workflows and structures of any product,
Wireframing helps building a very effective UX - just as how our skeletons make up our body — thats the same way wireframing makes up the structure of building a great product people will love.
Love the "cakewalk" analogy! You're so right!
Thanks!
Absolutely, Upsilon! Wireframes are essential, not just for layout but for aligning team understanding around user experience early on. They focus on usability and functionality, essential before adding aesthetic details. Quick and cost-effective, wireframes guide detailed design phases and prevent costly revisions, ensuring all stakeholders are on the same page. They're strategic tools in efficient product development, not mere stepping stones.
Aligning team understanding is SUPER important, I agree. And the earlier on, the better, right?
One of the big advantages of wireframes that I find interesting is the investment time. When you're looking to validate an idea or concept with potential customers, you can quickly have a basis for discussion without having to spend days developing a complete mock-up or PoC. This is really relevant if you're not yet sure whether the product or feature is really of interest to anyone.
Yeah, totally! You can get discussions going and share opinions with the team and spend practically nothing in terms of time and money on the wireframes.
I've found wireframes super helpful to avoid nitpick conversations. When fidelity is too high people focus on aesthetics more than functionality.
The earliest stages are not the time to nitpick, I'm totally with you on this one. Functionality first, then you can move on to the design fluff!