It used to be that a new web design tool would come along every few months but these days it seems like there’s a new one being released every single day. There are so many that it’s sometime hard to keep up but keep up we do here and, with that in mind, we’d like to present a list of some of the top wire framing tools out right now. Enjoy!
1. Balsamiq
Balsamiq Mockups is a mockup app for graphical user interfaces. With Balsamiq the user can arrange an interface mockup using pre-built widgets that they can place anywhere they desire using the convenient drag-and-drop WYSIWYG editor that comes with the app. There are several plug-ins that you can use for Balsamiq and it also comes in a desktop version.
2. OmniGraffle
This diagramming app can be used to create all sorts of things that they normally would use a stencil for. OmniGraffle has their own or the user can make their own to create flow charts, diagrams, organization charts and diagrams. It also has an excellent WYSIWYG interface.
3. Wireframe Pro
With 400 individual UI elements Wireframe Pro lets the designer create excellent, high quality wireframes in just a few minutes time and lets them create mockups also.
4. Moqups
If you need stencils for objects like buttons, links, squares and rectangles, placeholder images and sliders that Moqups is what you want. It’s a keen little HTML5 app that designers can use to make all sorts of great stuff like wireframes and prototypes.
5. Cacoo
Like the others on the list Cacoo allows the user to create wireframes quickly and easily as well as maps, UML diagrams, flowcharts and other useful web necessities. It’s also great for brainstorming ideas and mapping them out. Diagrams created using the app can link directly to any website or web app as well and when updated the linked images get updated too.
6. Axure RP
Like the rest Axure RP is a great tool for creating wireframes fast but it also comes with a number of other features like the ability to annotate widgets, define interactions like linking and simulate tab controls.
7. Pidoco
Designers can use this cloud based software to test their websites as well as web apps, mobile apps and other software. Sharing is easy with Pidoco because its cloud based and can be dine in real time with collaborators and team members alike.
8. Jumpchart
Designers that need a suite of planning tools will find one in Jumpchart. If quick organization of a website is what you want as well as being able to store every edit and add snippets then this app is for you. It also has WordPress export features that are very convenient and, like the rest, is great for making wireframes.
And there you have them. Eight great apps and programs that will not only help you to build your wireframes but also help you perform a whole slew of other useful tasks. Give them a try and see which one you like best.
