With all the different screen sizes of smartphones and tablets, it is becoming more and more complicated to design interactive prototypes – and at the same time it is becoming even more important. In the world of UI Design it is important to carry out UI prototyping. I often start with paper prototypes, but then quickly I use a wireframing tool. A wireframing tool helps you to conceptualize a well-performing interface design of the final product. (There are two types of wireframing tools, desktop-based or online-based). I personally prefer the online version of a wireframing tool as it is accessible everywhere you have an internet connection and it’s easy to work in collaboration. When only the iPhone app market, it was easy to just design prototypes for one specific screen size. Nowadays it’s more complicated, but it’s only a question of being organized.
Here is my advice: When brainstorming and planning a project, think about the devices the app should be available for. Within the wireframing tool I use, it is possible to create project folders, so I just copy my first general prototype and then adapt it to the specific screen sizes – e. g. iPhone 5, Samsung Galaxy S3 and LG Optimus 4X HD. Often there are only a few clicks needed to change the prototype. Don’t forget that some devices have hardware keys, this is especially important when working with the landscape and portrait view. However, as in every project, it’s just important to think about these points before starting to work; a well- planned project is half way done.
