For all those people out there looking to create engaging and memorable products – and those looking for a prototyping tool that will blow you away then look no further that downloading https://www.figma.com/ . For those people unsure there is a free version that supports 1 project at the time of writing this. So sign up, register and download.

I cant stress how incredible this online tool is and and it keeps getting better and more usable with every update (which seems to be about once every month at least).

Right OK where do I start? If you use vector based art packages such as Adobe Illustrator then you will definitely get on with this tool. Create a frame (pretty much an artboard) most containers and working areas use frames to design prototypes and containers inside of frames – sounds dauting but frames are so versatile and useful for creating responsive websites, games, mobile apps, watch apps, augmented reality apps, virtual reality apps and mixed reality apps and anything else that has interactive screens/spaces when you need to understand user journeys and prototyping interactions.

FIGMA uses vector graphics as it main base to create buttons, boarders, graphics, icons patterns etc. you can also import images pngs, jpegs, gifs etc if needed. but please be mindful of resolution and optimization when using rasterized images. There is a pen tool similar to Adobe illustrator and functions in much the same way, for simple vector line creating with Bezier curves.

There is a simple browser version that runs within the chrome, edge, firefox or whatever your chosen default browser is and there is also a desktop download version for Windows and iOS. which is the same as the browser but works more efficient on full screen and has better offline capabilities if you have internet problems. There is also a mirror feature for iOS and Android – so download the apps for your phones as well if your creating a prototype for a phone or tablet. Once youve got the Figma mirror app setup your project within Figma desktop/web browser and then select the frame u want to view on your phone within the mirror app then hey presto your mobile application can be simply viewed and edited in realtime while looking on your phone – seriously try this feature out its soooooo cool. If youve created linked interactions you can jump between pages simply – its not perfect but its a super cool feature for all you mobile app designers.