I have often needed more attention to detail between design and Development. I understand that sometimes things can’t be done (code issues, design ahead of the curve, etc.). Understanding issues before coding helps cut down on costs, upset clients, and just “OK” work. I think communication throughout the process is critical.
I remember designing an interface for Realpoint, a Commercial Mortgage-Backed (CMBS) and Commercial Real Estate company. We made a slick interface that the client signed off on but realized it could not be done once Development started to code. There were many problems, one being .net or, as we know, SharePoint.
Attention to detail in UX, especially during the handoff to Development, is critical for maintaining design integrity and ensuring a smooth user experience. I can’t stress enough that UX does not step away; UX stays involved, ensuring everyone agrees on changes.
Clear and Comprehensive Documentation
- Design Specs: Include detailed design specifications, such as spacing, typography, and color schemes. Tools like Figma or Zeplin can automatically generate design specs for developers.
- Component Libraries: Ensure developers have access to the design system or component library to ensure consistency across the project.
Interactive Prototypes
- Clickable Prototypes: Provide interactive prototypes with annotations to showcase functionality. These can clarify complex interactions, such as multi-touch gestures, micro-interactions, or animations.
- Transitions and States: Make sure every state (hover, clicked, disabled, etc.) is captured in the prototype.
Collaboration and Communication
- Early Involvement: Involve developers early in the design process to get feedback and assess technical feasibility.
- Regular Syncs: To address potential roadblocks, maintain ongoing communication between design and dev teams through meetings or shared Slack channels.
Use of Version Control
- Design Versioning: Tools like Abstract or Figma’s version history allow developers to track design iterations, ensuring they always work with the latest version.
- Dev Branching: Align with developers on branching in Git or another version control system to maintain a clear link between design changes and dev sprints.
Testable Designs
- Usability Testing: Ensure that the design has been validated through usability testing before the handoff, reducing the chances of rework.
- Edge Cases: Identify and document edge cases, particularly for responsive designs, error states, or varying data inputs.
Pixel-Perfect Review
- Design Reviews: Conduct pixel-perfect QA sessions post-handoff to compare the implemented UI with the design mockups, ensuring no details are missed.
- Feedback Loops: Create a system to provide quick feedback if discrepancies arise during Development.
Focusing on these areas can facilitate a smoother and more accurate handoff process, which benefits both the user experience and the final product development.