How can you prototype UIs for any operating system or browser?

1 Choose the right prototyping tool

The first step to create cross-platform UI prototypes is to choose a tool that suits your needs and goals. There are many prototyping tools available, but not all of them offer the same features and functionalities. Some tools are more focused on creating high-fidelity, interactive prototypes, while others are more suitable for low-fidelity, static mockups. Some tools allow you to export your prototypes as HTML, CSS, or JavaScript files, while others require you to use their own formats or platforms. Some tools are web-based, while others are desktop-based or mobile-based. Depending on your project scope, budget, and preferences, you should select a tool that can help you create UI prototypes that are compatible with any operating system or browser.

2 Use responsive design principles

The second step to create cross-platform UI prototypes is to use responsive design principles. Responsive design is a way of designing UIs that adapt to different screen sizes, orientations, and resolutions. Responsive design ensures that your UIs look good and function well on any device, from desktops to tablets to smartphones. To apply responsive design principles, you should use flexible layouts, fluid grids, and media queries. Flexible layouts allow you to adjust the size and position of your UI elements based on the available space. Fluid grids help you create proportional and consistent UI elements that scale with the screen size. Media queries enable you to apply different styles and rules based on the device characteristics, such as width, height, or pixel density.

3 Test your prototypes on multiple platforms and devices

The third step to create cross-platform UI prototypes is to test them on multiple platforms and devices. Testing your prototypes is crucial to identify and fix any issues or bugs that might affect the user experience. Testing your prototypes on different operating systems and browsers can help you check the compatibility, performance, and functionality of your UIs. Testing your prototypes on different devices can help you evaluate the usability, accessibility, and aesthetics of your UIs. To test your prototypes effectively, you should use a combination of tools and methods, such as simulators, emulators, real devices, and user testing. Simulators and emulators are software applications that mimic the behavior and features of a specific platform or device. Real devices are the actual hardware that your users will use to access your UIs. User testing is a process of gathering feedback and insights from your target users by observing them using your prototypes.

4 Follow the best practices and standards

The fourth step to create cross-platform UI prototypes is to follow the best practices and standards for UI design and development. Doing so will help you create UIs that are consistent, reliable, and user-friendly. To achieve this, use semantic and valid HTML, CSS, and JavaScript code that follows web standards and accessibility guidelines. Additionally, employ progressive enhancement and graceful degradation techniques to ensure your UIs work well on any browser, even if some features or functionalities are not supported. Additionally, you should use web fonts, icons, and images optimized for different screen resolutions and pixel densities. Finally, use appropriate UI patterns, components, and widgets that match the platform and device conventions and expectations.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?