App prototyping is an important part of developing an app. It is the process by which the workflow of an app can be defined in an interactive manner. A working app model is developed that include the presentation of all clicks, swipes, and drags which is then presented as an app demo or a POC (proof of app) concept. App prototyping is considered as a majorly significant process during the design and development phase of an app.
There are a number of reasons why an app development firm should perform app prototyping. Some of them are listed below:
• It helps to fix design issues and evaluate app ideas.
• It is essential in developing interactive design concepts.
• App prototyping facilitates hassle-free development of apps thereby saving time and money.
Whether it is an Android or iphone app development project, prototyping serves like a genuine system that can help in eradicating major and minor design issues before starting with the coding process. The app concept as well as features, flow and interactions can be modified by prototyping. This helps to reduce the costs that are traditionally associated with making changes. Since it costs a lot more after the coding has been prepared and implemented, it only makes practical sense to make use of prototyping which helps to make changes prior to coding and save on money.
Prototyping also helps in connecting with the targeted end users and understand their designing expectations as they use the app. This process helps the app development company to use different colors, layouts, and schemes for creating different designs. Each and every design gets analyzed after being integrated into mobile. Finally, the one that is most aesthetically pleasing, functionally sound and easy to navigate is chosen according to user preferences.
Prototyping for apps that offer information and guidance to users is naturally more important than doing so for apps that are made essentially for entertainment. Unless this is done so, the final app can have numerous design or development flaws which can affect its popularity and acceptance with the end users.
Check out various types of prototyping that can be used for planning and brainstorming.
The various stages associated with app prototyping
Understanding the client’s requirements
For any iOS or Android app development project, the client provides with a scope document, app reference links and a feature list. These are studied and analyzed by the development team after which the project manager discusses the requirements and development strategies with mobile app designer and business analyst. A flowchart is made according to the recommendations of the project manager.
Wireframing
After forming the idea of the app’s flow, rough screens will be made either on paper or by using wireframe tools that include widgets and various layouts. Features such as app navigation and appearance are communicated to the end users at this stage.
Defining visual effects
The design of the screens commences after all functionalities are mapped. This process involves selection of the color schemes, widget placing, the button titles, message pop-ups as well as the creation of various icons, animations, screen transitions and other types of visual effects which makes the app visually appealing
Adding final touch
At this stage, the animations, transitions, and interactions are tested. The final screens are crosschecked with the flow to make the screens soothing which is then sent to the project manager or app developer for re-check. Any modifications, if required can be done at this stage along with some final touch.
