The process behind App Design
The design process encompasses every intentional action that is meant to produce something. As soon as soon an idea is formed the design process begins.
Idea
An idea is your foundation and what you will be building around. Everything starts with an idea, whether your own or a clients, and this idea will adapt, change, develop and evolve throughout the process. The most successful ideas are those that are constantly worked on and explored.
You should ask yourself the following questions when developing an idea:
- Is this idea financially viable?
- Is this idea technically feasible?
- Is someone else already doing this?
- Could this be made simpler/differently?
Spec
A ‘Specification’ also known as a ‘Spec’ is the piece of paper that outlines all elements and aspects of the idea and design process, giving a full run through of what needs to be achieved. The specification provides the reader specific information such as dimensions, colors, shapes etc. It should use plain language and must provide an explanation of the app.
Wireframe
Wireframes are essentially mockups of which can be included as a part of the spec. They can consist of digitized or hand-drawn models used to outline how the product is put together, how it will be structured and how it will look. Wireframes also uncover inconsistencies in navigation, missing sections and counterintuitive flows.
Prototype
The prototype phase is commonly taken place after the wireframing. A prototype is an early sample of a product built to test a concept or process, allowing for initial feedback. They can be created on variation of either low-fidelity mockup tools or more advanced prototype tools such as Adobe XD or InVision.
Visual Design
Visual design influences the overall appearance of the app. This can be seen through through use of imagery, color, shapes, typography and form to further increase usability and improve the user experience. However, it is important to not base your application solely on appearance, as it may neglect the apps functionality. Changes to the visual design of the app will be constantly made as part of the overall evolving process.
Development
The person designer is the one accountable for developing the application and has been part of all the previous processes. That’s why it is important for the designer to adjust their product according to feedback, this may include little touches or tweaks to the design or layout that will ultimately lead to a more satisfying use experience.
Reflection
After reading this article, I had attained an in depth understanding into the design process as it discusses each development phase in further detail. The phases included the idea, specs, wireframes, prototype, visual design and development. It made me realize that app design and even web design is a continuously evolving process that is ultimately aimed towards satisfying user experience.
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