views:

143

answers:

3

When constructing an initial mock up of screens for a web application, what tools would be best to use? For starters, I'd like to avoid MS Paint and MS Visio!

Ideally I'd like ones that:

  • Are free
  • Make it quick and easy to design/redesign web application UIs at a basic and initial level.
+3  A: 

Balsamiq Mockups


There is a trial version, but if your project is open source you can get a free version or if you match any of the other criteria (see bottom of the page).

It is a very nice tool, that makes nice looking mock designs. The rough and "hand drawn" look means they are only useful for mocking up designs, but this is a plus - people are more likely to change them or throw them away. It also includes a load of templates and other common UI tools to speed up the design process.

Finglas
I second the Balsamiq Mockups. Much <3
Matt Ball
Mine only gripe is that it's a desktop Flash application - according to their site a web app is coming which should be even better.
Finglas
That looks very promising. Unfortunately I'd be looking at using this tool for business use so would need to pay for it. I'm impressed with their criteria for giving away the free version though.
David Neale
Balsamiq can export html pages, but I don't think they will have much functionality.
Nathan
+1  A: 

You can also take a look at our ForeUI, we also give away license to blogger/reviewers.

ForeUI can create both static and clickable mockups for web site.

Xavier Young
+3  A: 

I am really liking Mockingbird and it is free.

http://gomockingbird.com/

You can create projects then just send them an email to view the mock-ups. No need for an account to view mock-ups. So anybody can view your project.

EDIT:

Mockingbird is no longer free. Still a great service if it is frequently used.

Berek Bryan
Wow, Mockingbird looks awesome, exactly what I searched for. However, since the beta is ending soon, and it won't be free afterwards, I may stop using it. It will cost 9$/month what isn't that much, but I will only use it every now and then and don't like to pay a monthly fee.
Tim Büthe