I have written before on the features of a perfect wireframe software. One property I feel I haven’t emphasized enough is the simplicity of the wireframe software. It is very important to me that the wireframe software that I use is functional enough and satisfies all my needs and yet is easy to use.
Wireframe software is meant to quickly sketch initial ideas or brainstorm the basic layout, often in a team environment. It makes sense to spend as little time as possible on this. If the learning curve of your wireframe software is steep you need to consider whether the trade-off between the time spent on learning to use this wireframe software and the time it helps you save in project work is really beneficial to you. Complex tools are then often more valuable in big, complex projects. But for small projects, you would want an easy-to-use wireframe software.
To create a low fidelity wireframe I only need very basic stencils, which is why I rejected some wireframe software right away. Having to look for the needed stencils and functions among a million of options that wireframe software offers seems to be a waste of time. On the one hand, rich functionality of wireframe software should not be regarded as a disadvantage. On the other hand, it is impossible to meet everyone’s requirements with the same tool, which is why I would rather use the wireframe software that has the functionality I personally require.
Another important consideration is customers who want to participate in the development process. Many of them come from a non-technical background, and asking them to learn to work a complex wireframe software is difficult to argue – and unnecessary. I like wireframe software that allows easy engagement of clients and other stakeholders. After all, getting the design that is right for the target audience is our final goal.
