Robert Chambers

iPad for web design

Ok, I admit it, I was one of those sad people that queued for an iPad on the day it was released. Having said that, free Starbucks coffee and croissant made it quite an enjoyable experience. 

When the iPad was announced back in January, I was immediately hypnotised into wanting one. However, I found it very hard to justify (particularly for work), as I already have a MacBook and a Blackberry. In the end, it was my Birthday around the release date and I decided to treat myself.  However, after owning one for just 3 weeks, I have realised that it is a fantastic tool for web design. I had been trying to think of which device it would substitute, when, in fact, it has replaced my notepad (I guess the clue was in the name).

Notes

In the past, I have used a notepad for meetings. Transporting my laptop just to take a few notes always seemed like an overkill, while the Blackberry keyboard and screen are just too small for typing quickly or accurately. The iPad, on the other hand, is easy to transport (smaller than my old A4 notepad) and the keyboard is a great size for typing. In fact, using the AudioNote app, the quality of my notes has improved, by synchronizing what I type with the audio. A further advantage, if an internet connection is available, is that I can use the web browser to show the client examples of my work or the current status of their project.

Flow charts

Flow charts are really useful for planning websites. I use them for sitemaps and working out processes (registration, checkout etc.). Previously, I have used pen and paper to quickly mock them up.  Now, using the Instaviz app, I do this on my iPad.  It’s just as quick and easy (you can literally draw shapes with your finger), but much easier to edit and share with colleagues & clients (email your flow charts from within the app).

Wireframing

For initial wireframing, I have never found working on my laptop particularly creative. Instead, I’ve opted for pen and paper. This has all changed with the iPad, which perfectly combines the advantages of both. Using the iMockups app, I can quickly and easily create great looking wireframes, which I can then email direct to clients for approval.

What I’m not using it for

You could create a website from start to finish using an iPad. Apps, such as Gusto, enable you to code webpages and FTP them to your server. You can also use apps, such as Photogene, to edit images. However, my laptop connected to my external monitor is much better for such tasks, with their greater screen space. Having said this, when I’m out of the office with just my iPad, the Logmein Ignition app is very useful for connecting to my laptop back at the office and making urgent changes to websites.

Other apps

Other apps that I use for web design, which I haven’t mentioned above:

Adobe Ideas – great for sketching out ideas.
Evernote – brilliant for collecting ideas and inspiration.
Font Displayer – really useful for discussing font choices with clients at meetings.
Analytics HD – excellent for showing visitor stats to clients at meetings.
Air Display – nice way to expand my laptop screen when on the road.

Feel free to share how you are using your iPad for web design by posting a comment below.