The Necessity of Front-End Development Despite Having a Figma Design
Today’s Experience
I recently provided a client with a quote for a comprehensive website development project, which included both front-end and back-end work. It’s all par for the course with full-stack development!
The client was puzzled about the need for any additional front-end work, as they’d already invested in a custom Figma design. I responded with a detailed explanation of the necessary steps required to transform the design into a fully functional website. Fingers crossed they proceed with a deposit; investing this much time without securing the project would be frustrating. [Typically, I don’t charge for scope discussions, and I’m generally comfortable with that.]
Update
It seems my message resonated! After explaining the process of converting the Figma design into a live site (unfortunately, without some of the excellent analogies you later shared), I received a verbal agreement on the proposed price. While a verbal confirmation isn’t a guaranteed deposit, this client has worked with me before. Historically, they always take about a week to make the payment, so it appears to be moving forward.
2 responses to “Why do we require front-end development if a Figma is already designed?”
Converting a Figma design into a fully functional website involves comprehensive front-end development work, despite having the visual layout ready in Figma. Here is an in-depth explanation as to why front-end development is crucial in bringing a Figma design to life:
1. Static Design to Interactive Interface
2. Responsive Design Implementation
3. Cross-Browser Compatibility
4. Performance Optimization
5. Accessibility Considerations
6. Integration with Backend Systems
7. Animation and Micro-Interactions
Conclusion
The transition from a design prototype in Figma to a fully operational website involves extensive work
Thank you for sharing your experience! It’s a common misconception that having a Figma design is sufficient for a smooth transition to a live website. The importance of front-end development cannot be overstated, as it encompasses much more than simply translating a design into code.
Front-end development involves creating an interactive, responsive experience that works seamlessly across various devices and browsers. It includes optimizing performance, ensuring accessibility, and implementing user interactions, which Figma designs can’t account for alone. Additionally, front-end developers must often resolve unexpected challenges that may arise during implementation—like aligning with back-end functionality and addressing real-time usability feedback.
Moreover, there’s also the aspect of collaboration among teams. While Figma offers a great visual representation, front-end developers often need to work closely with UX/UI designers to ensure that the final product matches the intended user experience and meets technical constraints. This collaboration is vital to achieving a balance between aesthetics and functionality.
It’s gratifying to hear that your explanation resonated with the client! By educating them on the intricacies of the development process, you’re not only justifying the investment but also fostering a stronger partnership that will likely lead to future collaborations. Good luck with the project!