If you are a web designer who works primarily on the front end, there may be times when you have to hand over your work to a developer. Their job is to replicate it and turn it into a working website.
This is a big step in the process. To achieve a positive result, designers and developers need to be on the same page, so to speak. But that’s easier said than done.
Often, certain aspects of design and layout can be lost in translation. As a result, the browser looks different from your prototype app. Even subtle differences can undermine overall and aesthetic usability.
And while it may be easier to blame a rogue developer, it’s not always that simple. Communication is crucial, as well as providing a clear understanding of the design itself.
Let’s explore some ideas for making the transition from designer to developer productive.
Give Project Details
Looking back at the data is one of the most common issues in the mockup-to-build process. Items such as the fonts used, the spacing between elements, and design enhancements (shadows, borders, etc.) can be easily misunderstood or even misplaced.
This may be due to a lack of clarity. Without clear instructions, a developer may have to search within a prototype to find out how these items were implemented. And not everyone will take the time to do so.
We might assume that these features of our design will be obvious – no. Therefore, it is important to document the various aspects. This provides a reference point for developers as they work through the build.
Fortunately, many apps offer style guides that help to avoid any confusion. However, if you are designing an app like Photoshop, you may need to generate this information yourself.
Keep the Mockup and Assets Organized
Speaking of Photoshop, have you ever opened a PSD file only to see a large number of anonymous layers in seemingly random order? The ability to determine the content of each layer can be extremely frustrating.
Not only does this waste time, but it is also another way in which a developer could confuse those design details. Moreover, forcing a developer to make an unorganized mess is not a great way to make friends.
Organizing a mockup is crucial to smooth the hand. Take some time to label the various elements within your work and put them in a logical order.
When it comes to additional assets such as images and fonts, place them in folders. It is also helpful to name images in a way that reflects their content and / or use.
Don’t Forget About Responsive Styles
When it comes to the look and feel of your design on mobile devices, it’s best not to leave things unattended. Responsive styles are just as important as the desktop.
Again, this is where the help of a good prototyping app can be invaluable. Adding responsiveness to a mockup makes it easier for a developer to implement things.
However, some features may still require further explanation. For example, how should a multi-column layout respond to a tablet other than your phone? Will typography change? What about the shipping? These are all important things to consider.
Include notes on mobile devices in style guides and documents. This will ensure a consistent user experience for all screens.
Become a Tour Guide
Interactive mockups and written instructions are great. But there is still something to be said for having a conversation about the best points of the project.
With the ease of video conferencing, a virtual meeting with a developer on your to-do list should be a must. This allows you to act as a “tour guide” of sorts, explaining all the moving parts of your creative work.
In addition, it is also an opportunity to get valuable feedback. There may be instances when a developer sees an issue that may have a negative impact on users. It’s best to find this out now, rather than in the middle of construction.
Participants can also ask each other questions and clear up any possible misunderstandings. The goal is for everyone to keep pace with what is going on. It will help to spend even a few minutes discussing the project.
Designers and Developers Always at Work
In the end, everyone involved in website design and development has the same goal: a successful outcome. Seamless transition from designer to developer plays an important role.
For designers, it takes a little extra effort to ensure success. It is about providing a mockup that is well organized and documented. This includes any details on how the website is expected to operate across different screen sizes.
Lastly, it is crucial to try to keep in touch with colleagues. Spending time together (almost or in person) to discuss the details should be a priority.
He gets used to getting things right. And there is always the possibility of a mistake. But by taking the above steps, you will present your projects in the most direct way to success.
