Sketches are easy, fast, and cheap to create, iterate, and if needed, even discard without much effort. Unlike written or verbal communication, sketches sidestep rules of grammar and help clearly communicate ideas, all but eliminating misunderstandings. And the best part, they are a joy to create and document.
Although starting a prototype on a computer is sometimes easier, it’s not the best way to visually problem-solve. When you need to ideate website layouts or mobile applications or storyboard workflows and context scenarios, sketching is much more efficient. It keeps you from getting caught up in the technology, and instead focuses you on the best possible solution, freeing you to take risks that you might not otherwise take.
Sketches help designers to explore different design ideas quickly and easily without worrying about the details. The focus is on generating a variety of possible solutions, rather than finalizing any one of them. The sketches may include basic diagrams of the user interface, flowcharts, wireframes, or even storyboards that illustrate how the product might be used.
Sketching allows you to:
Once the sketches are complete, you can move on to more detailed design work, such as creating wireframes, prototypes, and visual designs. The sketches serve as a foundation for the design process and help ensure that the final product meets the needs of the users and the business.
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