Wireframing and Branding

Getting the page layouts right is where wireframing comes in. With an easy-to-use tool (like Balsamiq, covered in Chapter 5) and easy-to-change page layouts, you can work with your stakeholders to come up with a set of layouts that will work with their different types of content. These wireframes can then be used for quick and relatively inexpensive usability tests to see if people can perform the tasks they need to accomplish. In Figure 12-9 you can see the original wireframe that led to the final SharePoint page seen beside it on the right.

Figure 12-9. From wireframe to implemented page

The way the site’s pages actually look is a surprisingly large factor toward successful implementation. Many of us—especially those from a technical background—believe that the function and architecture of the site are the most important parts. But having a site that looks good is very important as well. Having a site comp based on the home page layout is something your stakeholders can use to communicate to others what is coming and why. Having a great looking home page can drive a lot of enthusiasm, making the communication and subsequent adoption process just a little bit easier.