Wireframes are low-fidelity visual diagrams that explore how content, functionality, navigation, and page layout can work on a website or application without being overwhelmed with graphic designs.
Think of them like an architect's blueprints for a house — they give you a good idea of what the final result will be and directions for how to accomplish that result, but they are not hard-and-fast rules. When it's time to build, minor tweaks and changes may be needed to get the best result.
Some projects will call for development to start immediately from wireframes, while others will include a step where more refined graphic designs are produced.
5 reasons why my approach works
I learn about your audience
Great designs require an understanding of the people who will be using it, and an understanding of their greater goals and motivations.
One of the first steps I take in making wireframes is learning about the people who will be using your interface.
I sketch rough
Refined designs may look exciting, but because of the way we interpret the world, feedback and critique from a refined design will be focused towards small incremental changes. A rough sketch opens the mind to think about the big picture because you won't be distracted by thinking about colours, gradients, and fine-tuning text.
As an added bonus, rough sketches are quicker to make and cost less than a more refined design.
I explore multiple possibilities
A lot of designers will take the first good idea that comes to them and run with it. This may lead to good designs, but rarely GREAT designs. Even what looks like a simple design can take multiple directions. Because I explore multiple design possibilities using cost effective rough sketches I can help you find the best design for your interface.
I think in patterns
Design patterns improve usability through consistency, and also allow a design to be developed faster by having design modules that can be reused.
When creating your wireframes I will either ensure that the interface will seamlessly integrate with an existing system, make the best use of any development patterns the project is already dedicated to, or design new patterns based on best practices and my experience.
I work with you, not for you
When I work on a project I dedicate myself to it's success. I take a personal pride in doing the best possible job I can whatever I do.
When we're working together you won't just be sent a file of designs and a bill, but you will be involved and consulted throughout the design process.
What to expect
Typically the development of wireframes designs will have the following steps:
- Project brief - where we discuss the project goals and scope
- Research - where I gain an understanding who uses the interface and why
- Rough sketches - exploration of design possibilities
- Schematic designs - refinement of rough sketches to a more complete design
Throughout these steps there will be in regular communication so that you have visibility and input into the design process.
Featured project — Les Mills class timetables
Les Mills™ is a world leader of innovative group fitness classes.
These wireframes explore how an iPhone application can help support people keep updated on with class timetables for the thousands of classes held worldwide each week.
Related Blog Posts
Rates
My rates are substantially lower than what you would get through an agency, however the quality of the results will not be compromised. (See what people are saying about me.)
I charge a simple hourly rate — contact me to have an initial discussion on the scope of your project.
First steps
If you're interested in working with me, the first step is a no-obligation discussion where we can discus the following:
- Size of the interface
- Nature of the interface (e.g. design-from-scratch where a brand new interface is designed; redesign of existing interface; or integration with other interfaces)
- Project timelines
- Scope of the wireframes
- Communication options (email, skype, or in-person)
- My current schedule & availability
It's also a chance just to have a general talk with me and to ask any extra questions you might have.
Following this discussion I will send a proposal within 24 hours confirming my availability, and my estimates on how much work will be involved at completing the schematic designs.
Contact Me
Contact me to discuss your project in full confidentiality and with no obligation (email/phone/skype/twitter...) New Zealanders are a special bunch —Find out why it's great to work with a Kiwi
What people say about me:
“Mat came with strong recommendations and he didn't disappoint. His ability to understand business and customer requirements and develop creative UI solutions was a huge help to our project. He provided structure to our customer experience design process that stood up to rigorous reviews, debate and formal presentations. For every ounce of energy he put into his work during the day, he always came in the next day with even more. Mat's an absolute pleasure to work with and I hope that one day I'll get the opportunity to again.”
Lynsey Blacklock — Customer Experience Designer, Telecom New Zealand
“Matt is so passionate about the online world - he lives and breathes it which is demonstrated in his output.
He is an asset to any team designing for new customer experiences - across online & offline channels. He is quick to grasp, extremely quick at delivery and actually cares personally about the accuracy and quality of his work.”
Carolyn Wong — Online Channel Design, Telecom New Zealand
“Matt worked with us on a number of key strategic projects at Air New Zealand. He demonstrated a keen insight for technology solutions and was always passionate about creating a world class user experience for customers. He has a talent for quickly evaluating business opportunities and developing technical concepts. His skills and background were very beneficial to us at a difficult time in our project and he was able to provide clarity and innovation in his analysis. His friendly style, can-do attitude and sense of humour made him a great fit with our team. I would hire Matt again in a heartbeat.”
Scott Giles — Grab-a-Seat, Online Marketing Manager, Air New Zealand