~ 4 min read
Figma enables multiple users to collaborate on the same design file in real time. It provides cross-platform accessibility, operating directly within a web browser and through desktop applications for both macOS and Windows. This feature guarantees smooth collaboration, regardless of device or operating system. Additionally, Figma incorporates version control, which monitors all modifications, making it simple to revert to previous versions when needed.
Our favourite aspect of the Figma environment is the ability to share the designs with our clients efficiently and directly provide the presentation mode URL. As the creative director, I have developed a habit over the past 10 years to record my screen, providing our clients with video updates and detailed audio commentary on what, why, when and how. This has always been very well received, especially on projects where several key stakeholders are dotted around the globe and unavailable for video calls due to busy schedules. The Figma links and accompanying video summaries allow our clients to review and digest the key milestone updates at their own pace and comment feedback directly into Figma.
The tool has advanced design features, including vector networks for scalable designs and a component system to create reusable elements and ensure consistency across different projects. Its auto layout feature simplifies creating responsive designs that adapt to various screen sizes, while plugins and widgets extend functionality with tools like accessibility checkers and design linting. For prototyping and interaction design, Figma enables users to create interactive prototypes by linking screens, adding transitions and incorporating advanced animations and micro-interactions to simulate user experiences. We are continuously improving our workflow and creative processes in Figma.
When it comes to developer handoff, Figma allows developers to inspect designs and export CSS, iOS, or Android code snippets. It integrates well with tools like Zeplin, Jira, and GitHub, streamlining workflows further. Figma provides shared libraries for managing design systems and centralising design assets and components. This makes updates easy across teams and allows clients with little guidance to access any needed assets. Features like team spaces, permissions, and activity logs enhance collaboration on large-scale projects.
Figma also emphasises accessibility and integration, offering tools to check colour contrast and other accessibility aspects. It integrates seamlessly with Slack, Trello, and Notion, enhancing productivity. Recently, we discovered a handy Google Meet plugin, as we prefer Google Meet to other video call platforms, but of course, we jump on Teams, Zoom, etc, as required. The Figma community is another significant asset, offering a vast library of free templates, plugins, and UI kits shared by other users. Learning resources like tutorials, webinars, and forums also support users of all skill levels. There seems to be no end to learning new and improved skills within Figma, which makes it a very satisfying platform to continue learning and pushing boundaries.
At ID Studio Web Agency, we use Figma to provide a wide range of design services. Our expertise includes:
We use Figma to ensure our designs are collaborative, efficient, and tailored to your brand’s unique needs. This approach yields stunning results in digital and print.
The right software tools can transform how teams approach web design projects, directly influencing efficiency, collaboration, and the quality of the final product. Here’s how:
1. Efficiency
2. Collaboration
3. Quality of Designs
Miscommunication is a common challenge in design workflows, as client feedback and revisions can often get lost or misinterpreted in long email threads. Figma resolves this problem through integrated commenting and markup options. This ensures transparent, relevant, and readily available feedback to all participants, minimising miscommunications.
Another challenge is inefficiency, typically caused by toggling between different tools, handling large files, or repeatedly recreating design elements. Figma addresses these problems as a comprehensive design platform, removing the need for constant tool switching. Its lightweight, cloud-based file management (which I can’t emphasise enough) enables teams to work more effectively, conserving time and effort while ensuring a seamless workflow.
Sharing designs effectively in the past was also a significant challenge. Managing large files and ensuring all stakeholders had access to the latest version were also cumbersome and error-prone. As a cloud-based tool, Figma provides an elegant solution by enabling teams to share a single link to the most up-to-date design file. This approach simplifies collaboration and ensures everyone is working with the correct version.
By adopting the right tools, web and platform development projects can overcome these common challenges and concentrate on creating designs and interfaces that are efficient, collaborative, and of the highest quality. Figma truly empowers teams to innovate and unleash their creativity.
ID Studio relies on Figma to streamline the large-scale business platform development planning and design process. Its robust features make it the ideal tool for efficiently and collaboratively managing complex, multifaceted projects. From large marketing platforms to banking and Fintech solutions we have developed and maintained, Figma was an essential tool for the success of these high-value projects.
"As a Creative Director at one of London's leading website design agencies, I love how Figma makes collaboration seamless and efficient. The ability for our team to work on the same design file in real time, no matter where we are, is a game-changer. Features like reusable components and auto-layout keep our designs consistent and responsive, while interactive prototyping lets us bring our ideas to life effortlessly. Plus, accessing cloud-based Figma files is lightning-fast compared to waiting for massive PSD files to open - it’s a huge time-saver that keeps our workflow moving smoothly."
Michael Macneil, Creative Director at ID Studio Web Agency
Here is a taste of how we set up and organised our Figma files, which you can also view on our web design showcases.
