Quick mockup of a feature list, so feedback and iteration can begin.

So you have started a new project, you have a list of features and requests but not much else. Everyone wants to see ideas asap. Seems simple enough, but where do you start? You have sketched a few things out, but the team should have a chance to play around the experience, right?

In Sketchflow there are several ways to rapidly explore and test concepts. Above I used the SketchStyles to create some of the features with sample data.
Then I made a starter app flow, with a couple of the initial pages of the site and several layout options.

Initial Sketchflow Map with layout options.

Next, the landing page, comped as a wireframe, with labeled content areas and links to the option pages.

Landing page start screen with stickie labels.

The buttons go to different variations of feature placements for the team to test and get a feel for.

Feature placement option 1.

Feature placement option 2.

Now, I can send out these initial ideas to the team and get their feedback, with the in-browser Sketchflow Player. Meanwhile, I can go back and finish flushing out the other features. But I have already started the experience conversation and engaged the entire team. Win-win!

A sneak peek at the Dynamic Prototyping cover design.

Chris Bernard and I have embarked on a book for designers by designers. This will be a easy hands-on way to jump in and use Sketchflow in Expression Blend 3. We will also be sharing our thoughts on creativity, design process, sketching, idea capture and prototyping. The books website, www.dynamic-prototyping.com has links to a free chapter of the book and everything you need to get started.

Let me know what you think : )

Expression Blend 3 has launched, you can test it out here!