By Today there is much demand in modern websites, mobile apps, and digital products. Companies require advanced software and design tools that can help them create attractive and professional interfaces. However, traditional design software is installed and can run on certain types of computers and operating systems. Besides, collaboration and transferring files require many efforts.
New opportunities for designers arise due to the existence of cloud-based design tools. They allow designing professionals to create professional layouts and interactive prototypes by using online design platforms. One of the most prominent design platforms among those offered today is called Figma.
What is Figma?
Figma is a browser-based design platform that allows creating user interfaces, mobile app designs, and webpages. Its main advantage lies in the possibility for several users to work with the same project.
Therefore, it is very beneficial to use this design tool in case of design teams where several people can work on one project at once. Thus, one member can be responsible for developing the layout, another for reviewing it and making comments.
Besides, it is worth mentioning that all work is performed completely in the cloud which means that all the documents can be accessed worldwide from any device with access to the Internet.
Key Features of Figma
Being one of the most powerful design platforms offered today, Figma contains numerous features that make the work of designers much easier and faster.
Among them is the possibility to work collaboratively. Several people can edit the document and work simultaneously without sending files to each other.
Besides, there is a vector-based design system. Designers can make scalable icons, layouts, and shapes with it. It is very important for designing responsive applications and websites.
Then comes the feature related to the ability of users to connect screens and create a clickable prototype of the product.
Finally, Figma allows users to reuse UI components in projects. Users are able to create various components such as buttons, navigation, icons, etc.
Creating Interfaces Using Figma
One of the advantages of Figma is that the whole process of designing takes place in it. In other words, there is no need to use any other software for creating wireframes, designing layouts, and building prototypes.
Thus, designers start by creating a simple wireframe layout for the user interface of the application being designed. After this step, they can color the layout, select typography, insert icons and images. When they are satisfied with the design appearance, they proceed to connecting all the screens to get the prototype.
Meanwhile, developers can access the files and see all the measurements of each object, its colors, and assets used. It makes the communication between the two parties more effective.
Plans and Pricing
Figma proposes a few plans depending on the user needs.
Free Plan
Free version can be used by beginners and freelance designers.
Features of the Free Plan
Basic design tools
Limited project storage
Real-time collaboration
Basic interactive prototyping tools
Professional Plan
Professional plan contains many more functions for teams and companies.
Features of the Professional Plan
Unlimited design files
Advanced collaborative tools
Design history and management
Team libraries and design systems
Comparison of Plans
Comparing Figma Plans
Figma Plan
Pros and Cons
Pros
Collaboration features
Web application
Good for UI and UX design
Interactive prototyping tools
Does not require software installation
Cons
Needs Internet access
Advanced features are paid
May take some time for beginners to master all the features
Conclusion
It should be said that thanks to Figma, the design process was seriously improved. There are numerous options for creating user interfaces, websites, and mobile applications.
Being a browser-based collaborative tool, Figma became very productive and convenient for designers. Besides, it offers many functions for beginners to use the free version and many tools for professional teams.
