Prototyping in Figma Explained
Key Concepts
- Creating Prototypes
- Linking Frames
- Interactive Elements
- Previewing and Sharing Prototypes
Creating Prototypes
Prototyping in Figma allows you to create interactive mockups of your designs. To start, you need to have a set of frames that represent different screens or states of your application. These frames can be linked together to simulate user interactions and flows.
Think of creating prototypes as building a storyboard for a movie. Each frame (scene) represents a different part of the story, and linking these frames together creates a narrative that users can follow.
Linking Frames
Linking frames in Figma is the process of connecting different screens to create a seamless user experience. You can link any element within a frame to another frame by selecting the element, clicking on the "Prototype" tab, and then dragging the connector to the target frame. This allows you to define actions like clicking a button to navigate to a new screen.
Imagine linking frames as creating a choose-your-own-adventure book. Each choice (link) leads to a different outcome (frame), guiding the reader through various scenarios.
Interactive Elements
Interactive elements in Figma prototypes include buttons, links, and other clickable components that trigger actions. You can define interactions such as hover effects, click actions, and transitions. These interactions make your prototypes feel more realistic and engaging.
Think of interactive elements as the controls of a video game. Each button (interactive element) performs a specific action, making the game (prototype) more dynamic and enjoyable.
Previewing and Sharing Prototypes
Once your prototype is complete, you can preview it directly within Figma to test the user flow. To share your prototype with others, you can generate a shareable link that allows collaborators to interact with the prototype in real-time. This is useful for gathering feedback and iterating on your design.
Consider previewing and sharing prototypes as presenting a finished product to a focus group. By sharing the link, you invite others to experience and critique your design, helping you refine and improve it.