Even though Google overtook Apple by number of created applications in 2013, iOS remains the most profitable platform for app developers and marketers. There are a number of helpful tools that developers can use to create sketches and prototypes of iOS applications if they don’t want or don’t have the opportunity to hire in-house designers.
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Framer
This product is good for developers who want to make simple and complex animations. Using Framer you can create interactive applications on the desktop. The application is integrated into Photoshop, so to get started you need to download the app, open the project files in Photoshop, and then click Run in the Framer. You will see the project folder, where you can write code and watch your prototype become indistinguishable from a real running application.
2. MockingBot
MockingBot is an editor that helps to create interactive mockups on the web. The first application is free, if you need unlimited mockups you will have to pay $7 a month or $15 for three months. The service has a full set of graphic elements that may be needed in the design of applications for the AppStore. Optionally, you can find similar functionality with editors such as Balsamiq or MockingBird.
3. Flinto
Flinto is a good editor for creating interactive prototypes. You will need to have your layouts ready in order to use the Flinto service. However, in the app you can download not only well-designed mockups, but very raw sketches. It easily and conveniently arranges links between different elements and loads the prototype directly to the desktop of your device for demonstrations. The subscription price per month for individual developers is $10, a corporate subscription is $25 per participant. The application has more extensive alternatives for the desktop: Prototypeand Briefs(Mac only).
4. Prototyping on Paper
This application allows you to use the most simple and accessible tools—a pencil, some paper, and an iPhone. Draw sketches by hand and take a picture of them and the service will automatically adjust the brightness and size, and the simulator will make your future application. In POP you can create a system of links and use it to see how the application will respond to the pressing of this or that button. POP also allows you to share the prototype you have created with colleagues and friends in order to gather feedback.
5. AppСooker
The service allows you to create mockups directly on an iPad. You can make sketchers with your finger or choose from the various graphic elements in the library. Some elements can be linked and, if you need to, you can create a semblance of a running application for a demonstration. AppCooker offers many features for those who are very sensitive to the details. For example, you can make several different versions of the icon or calculate the app development rates.
If your budget is really tight and you have a great app concept, these tools are an excellent way to get started, but if you really want make the best impression you may want to consider hiring a professional designer.
