Why Sketch 3 has Become the Tool of Choice for Web Designers

While I cannot speak for everyone, I can certainly explain why I switched to Sketch 3 and didn't look back. It's important to understand that this does not diminish the value of Adobe programs; rather, it highlights how they can complement each other. Adobe tools are still incredibly useful, especially for their specialized features, but Sketch 3 has made web design more accessible and efficient.

The Evolution of Web Design Tools

Building the web with Photoshop and Illustrator was never truly ideal. Fireworks was a step in the right direction but suffered from a cumbersome interface. Sketch 3 has brought a seamless blend of vector graphics and user-friendly design, making it an attractive option for web designers. The ease of use of Sketch 3 is remarkable, and it fits into a portfolio that would include Apple products, leaving one to wonder why it hasn't been acquired by them yet.

Economic Benefits and Ease of Learning

Sketch 3 comes at a much more affordable price point. At just $99, it is significantly less expensive than Adobe Creative Suite, which requires a monthly subscription of $20. This price difference makes Sketch 3 a popular choice for both individuals and small businesses. Additionally, transitioning from a novice to a proficient user in Sketch 3 can be achieved in as few as three days, based on prior knowledge of other graphic design programs. One of the most complicated aspects of learning Sketch 3 was figuring out independent rounding of corners, but even this challenge was quickly mastered.

The Power of Symbols

One of the standout features of Sketch 3 is its powerful symbols. For web designers, repetition is a common occurrence, especially when designing user interfaces (UI). Styles and elements such as text, shapes, buttons, and picture frames are frequently repeated throughout a design. In Sketch 3, symbols simplify this process, making it much less labor-intensive than in a program like Illustrator. Sketch 3 focuses on the web designer's workflow rather than the artist's, providing streamline functions that are specifically tailored to UI development.

Integration and Streamlined Workflow

The workflow in Sketch 3 is designed to be intuitive and efficient. Once you have your designs laid out, right-clicking an item to view its CSS properties or holding down the alt key to see distances from neighboring elements becomes immensely useful. Iterations are simplified when working with styles and symbols, and the grid and layout overlays are clean and crisp.

Sketch 3 in UX Design and Wireframing

Sketch 3 is particularly well-suited for creating high-fidelity prototypes and wireframes. When combined with UX applications like InVision, it forms a powerful synergy, making iterations a breeze. The process of outputting and re-testing designs is streamlined, which is crucial in the dynamic world of web development.

Conclusion

While Sketch 3 might not be the best tool for creating illustrations or handling multiple photo variants, it is unparalleled for UI development. Its ease of use, affordability, and powerful features make it a standout choice for web designers. The creative flow of Sketch 3 matches perfectly with the UI design process, ensuring that designers can focus on creating user-friendly and visually appealing interfaces without the complexities of traditional design tools.