Jul 20, 2021·2 min read

User Interface Layout: 5 Essential Tips from Appmaster.io

Learn how to create a User Interface layout. Few important points to consider about the process.

If you've read articles about app design, you've probably come across the whole list of different terms: layout, prototype, mockup, wireframe, sketch. How are they different from each other? In fact, when it comes to no-code development, it doesn't really matter.

You can completely design the visual part in the editor, do the adjustments and changes as you wish at any time. Even after you publish the app and users start using it, you can change the look and pages layout without the risk of losing data!

Therefore, in what form you present the project before switching to the editor is not so important. It can be a prototype in Figma or an image in Photoshop, a drawing in Paint or a freehand sketch, or even a diagram in an Excel spreadsheet. The main thing is that you have a clear idea of how it should work.

But there are a few important points to consider.

Decide which app you need: web or mobile

You can create two versions of the application that will be interconnected - some of your users will work from mobile devices, some from personal computers, while the data will be shared. Although the design will be different.

Different editors are used to building mobile and web applications, it is important to understand in general terms the specifics of their work before starting. Read the sections about them in our documentation.

Define user groups

Divide users into groups depending on what functions are available to them and analyze how different they are.

We are not only talking about the division into users and administrators. If your application will be used by clients with different access levels or employees of different departments, you can hide or display individual elements and even entire pages, depending on what functions and data are available to a particular user.

You need illustrative examples

Find as many apps as possible that are as similar to yours. You might be able to use one of them as a base by adding the functions you want or you might want to combine the functionality of several applications into one. Make a shortlist with a description of the advantages and disadvantages - it will be useful not only when drawing up a layout, but also when contacting technical support for advice, looking for performers and investors for a project, and just for generating new ideas.

Describe the pages in detail

You need to clearly understand what pages will be in your application and what information should be displayed on each of them.

Usually, the application includes:

Home page: All users will come to this page, whether they are registered or not.
Admin Portal: It will manage settings and accounts.
Separate pages for users with different access levels.
Pop-up pages appear when certain actions are performed.
Don't forget about service messages for users and separate windows with confirmation of actions (for example, consent to send data).

Don't forget about data exchange

Keep Improving After Launch

Change UI and logic as requirements evolve while keeping your app clean and scalable.

Iterate Now

Think about where your application will take data and where it will send it. Will all information come from users? What processes can be automated?

Some of the data can be taken from sites or downloaded from accounting programs. To simplify the login to your application, use the authorization of large services, such as Google or Facebook. This requires separate interface elements, for example, buttons "Upload data" or "Login with Facebook".

If it’s difficult to think through everything at once, create a layout with a minimum set of necessary functions and separately write your thoughts on what you would like to add in the future. If you have any difficulties - write to the telegram channel of our technical support, we are always happy to help!

FAQ

Choose web when people will mainly work from computers and need larger tables, admin tools, or detailed forms. Choose mobile when they need to use the app on the move or access phone features. You can build both versions and connect them to the same data.

No. A rough sketch, Figma screen, spreadsheet diagram, or reference app can all work. Start with a clear idea of the screens, actions, and information each user needs.

A wireframe shows the basic placement of content and controls. A mockup adds visual styling, while a prototype lets someone click through a possible user flow. For a no-code project, any of these can help if they make the intended behavior clear.

List every type of person who will use the app, then write what each person can view, add, edit, approve, or manage. Include differences between departments, customer plans, and administrators.

For each page, write its purpose, the data it shows, the actions people can take, and who can access it. Include error messages, confirmations, and empty states so they do not get missed later.

Most apps need a public or entry page, sign-in and account pages, task-specific screens, and an admin area for settings and users. Add pop-ups for actions that need confirmation, such as deleting a record or sending data.

Map where each piece of information starts, where it is stored, and who updates it. Then mark any outside systems involved, such as accounting software, websites, payment tools, or email services.

Collect a small set of similar apps and record what they do well, what frustrates you, and which features you actually need. Use the notes to avoid copying screens that do not fit your workflow.

Start with the smallest version that lets users complete the main job. Keep a separate list of future ideas, then add them after people can use the first version and you know what matters most.

Yes. AppMaster lets you update pages and visual elements after release while keeping the application data intact. Test changes before you publish them so users see a consistent experience.