Intro to Figma and Design/Dev Fundamentals—Module 2

Introduction to Web Design and Development

• Overview of Module 2: Basics of Web Design and Development.

• Importance of collaboration with developers for web designers.

• Key lesson focus: understanding UX designers, UI designers, and web developers.

Professional Roles in Web Development

• UX Designer: Focuses on user experience, making applications easy and satisfying to use. Example: ramps for strollers in parks improving user experience.

• UI Designer: Concentrates on visual elements (buttons, text, images) and their presentation. Example: signage and layout at conferences to enhance user navigation.

• Web Developer: Translates design ideas into functional websites. Ensures site functionality (clicks, data entry).

• Web Designer: Combines elements from UX, UI, and basic development skills for a well-rounded approach.

Importance of Learning Development Basics

• Development knowledge enhances communication with developers.

• Promotes realism in design, ensuring feasibility of concepts.

• Aids in problem-solving and streamlining collaboration.

• Increases understanding of user experience across devices.

Introduction to Figma

• Figma as a cloud-based design tool for web and mobile interfaces.

• Real-time collaboration features and vector graphics capabilities.

• Component system for reusable design elements and interactive prototyping.

• Accessibility design features and built-in version control.

Figma Installation and Interface Navigation

• Installation process for Figma desktop version.

• Overview of Figma interface: main toolbar, properties panel, canvas, layers panel, and pages panel.

• Creating and managing design files and components.

Working with Shapes in Figma

• Shape tools: Use for geometric designs (rectangles, circles).

• Customizing shapes: Fill color, stroke, and advanced stroke settings (dashed lines, corner styles).

• Importance of experimenting with shapes to hone design skills.

Understanding Frames in Figma

• Frames as containers for organizing designs.

• Importance of auto layout, nested frames, and layout grids for complex designs.

• Techniques for adding content within frames (shapes, text, images).

Aligning and Distributing Elements

• Aligning and distributing elements for neat design organization.

• Manual vs automatic alignment strategies.

• Using auto layout for efficient design management.

Adding Text and Images

• Adding text: Use text tool and format properties (font, size, spacing).

• Importing and formatting images: Drag-and-drop or using 'Place Image'.

• Masking images with shapes for creative effects.

Figma Plugins

• Plugins extend Figma functionalities: automation, feature integration, and workflow improvements.

• Example: Unsplash plugin for royalty-free images.

• Encouragement to explore different plugins based on design needs.

Key Web Design Principles

• Balance: Symmetrical vs. asymmetrical design.

• Variety: Mixing elements to avoid monotony.

• Contrast: Making key elements stand out.

• Alignment: Keeping designs orderly and clean.

• Movement: Guiding viewer attention.

• Scale and Proportion: Size relationships amongst elements.

• Emphasis and Hierarchy: Highlighting important parts in design.

• Rhythm: Creating visual patterns through repetition.

• Unity: Ensuring design cohesion.

• Space: Utilizing white space for readability.

• Repetition and Proximity: Building familiarity and connecting related elements.

Understanding Web Development Technologies

• Overview of front-end development: HTML, CSS, JavaScript.

• HTML: Basic structure of web pages (tags, elements).

• CSS: Styles and layout, enhancing visual appeal.

• JavaScript: Adding interactivity and dynamic behaviors.

Backend Development Basics

• Importance of backend development as the functional brain of a website.

• Key technologies: Python (Django, Flask), Node.js, PHP, Ruby (Rails), SQL for database management.

Exploring No-Code Development

• Concept of no-code development: building websites without coding.

• Recommended tools: Framer for beginners; Webflow for advanced users.

• Importance of learning both design and no-code tools.

Conclusion of Module 2

• Encouragement to practice skills learned through exercises.

• Access link for exercise materials.