Stacy Randolph

A PM thinking about usability, user experience, program management, community and stuff to be creative about.

January 2009 - Posts

Why haven't I known about Balsamiq?

I use Visio all the time and even started my own module type library. But, I learned about the Balsamiq mock-up tool today and that does it, I'm converting. Right now.

What do I like so much about this tool?

  • Pre made modules for Software mock-ups. Easily resize and move around

    image
  • Drag and drop - easy schmeezy
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  • Alignment controls. These are hidden in Visio, you have to know about them and then find which toolbar they live in.
    image


  • Module specific controls. For example, the vertical tabs module has some configuration options specific to vertical tabs:
    image 
  • Full Screen view - it comes with a nice little pointer
    image

 

Initial questions, though:

  • Can I create or download new modules? What if there is a new module that isn't in the Balsamiq library?
  • What if I don't like the cartoonish looking feel of the modules? Can I modify the style at all? Not sure I I really really want to, though, they do give a fun feel to the mock-ups.
  • Can I change the background in my work area? You can remove the notebook, but I'd rather have a white background than parchment yellow. 

 

Contact the company to get your own copy of this great tool:

balsamiq_logo2