What Are Annotations?

Annotations are, quite simply, explanations and notes about an element or an interaction on a wireframe. They typically contain such information as

• Content identification or labeling

• Content source(s)

• Display rules

• Interaction rules

• Interaction destinations

• Process rules

• Error content/messaging

It’s best to author annotations with very direct—if not terse—tone and clear explanations. Do not leave anything to chance in an annotation; there is a very big difference between should and shall.

Bad: “Triggering this call to action (CTA) should result in the display of the home page.”

Good: “Triggering this call to action (CTA) shall result in the display of the home page.”

OK, to be fair, the first example isn’t exactly horrible, but the word should could leave room for confusion for a developer downstream in the process, who may not have the luxury of his favorite UX designer standing by to answer questions. Ensure that your annotation style is succinct and leaves zero ambiguity for anyone who may need to read—and rely upon—your instructions.