Figma has revolutionised the world of app design, offering a user-friendly and collaborative platform for crafting intuitive and engaging mobile experiences. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just embarking on your app-building journey, Figma's powerful tools can empower you to bring your ideas to life. This blog post equips you with a set of practical tips to streamline your app design and prototyping workflow within Figma.

Laying the Foundation: User Research and Wireframing

Before diving headfirst into aesthetics, take a step back and understand your users. Conduct user research – surveys, interviews, or usability testing – to identify their needs, pain points, and behavioural patterns. This research forms the bedrock of your app's design, ensuring it resonates with your target audience.

Once you have a grasp of user needs, embark on wireframing. Wireframes are low-fidelity mockups that focus on the app's functionality and layout. Don't worry about visuals at this stage; prioritise clarity, user flow, and information hierarchy. Figma's intuitive pen tool allows you to sketch basic shapes and layouts, while features like grids and spacing tools ensure consistency.

Building the Blocks: Design Systems and Components

As your app design progresses, establish a design system – a collection of reusable components that define the app's visual language. This includes elements like buttons, icons, navigation bars, and typography. Creating a design system in Figma is a breeze. Leverage the "Components" feature to create master elements that can be easily customised and reused throughout your design. This ensures consistency, saves time, and streamlines future updates.

Crafting the Look and Feel: Colour, Typography, and Imagery

With the foundation laid, it's time to inject personality! Define a colour palette that reflects your brand and aligns with your target audience. Figma's colour picker allows for precise colour selection, while the ability to create colour styles ensures consistent application across the app.

Typography plays a crucial role in user experience. Choose fonts that are clear, readable, and align with your brand identity. Figma offers a robust library of typefaces, and you can create text styles to maintain consistency across the app.

High-quality imagery is essential for captivating users and setting the tone for your app. Use Figma's image import functionality to incorporate photos, illustrations, and icons that complement your design language. Remember to optimise image sizes for efficient loading times.

Prototyping for Interactivity: Bringing Your App to Life

Prototyping allows you to simulate real-world user interactions within your design. Figma's powerful prototyping features enable you to connect screens, define user flows, and create interactive elements like buttons and navigation bars. This allows you to test the app's usability and user experience before development begins.

Here are some Figma prototyping tips to consider:

Collaboration is Key: Sharing, Feedback, and Version Control

Figma shines in its collaborative capabilities. Share your design projects with team members for real-time feedback and co-editing. Leverage the commenting feature to highlight specific areas for discussion and iteration.

Version control is crucial for tracking design changes. Figma's built-in version history allows you to revert to previous versions if needed, ensuring a clear design evolution path.

Beyond the Basics: Figma Plugins and Resources

The Figma community thrives on innovation, offering a vast array of plugins that extend its functionality. Explore plugins for creating user flows, generating mock data, or crafting accessibility overlays. These plugins can significantly enhance your design and prototyping workflow.

Don't forget to leverage Figma's extensive learning resources. The Figma Help Centre offers tutorials, articles, and video guides to assist you at every stage of the design process. Additionally, the Figma community forum is a treasure trove of knowledge, where you can connect with fellow designers and seek help.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of App Design

Figma is a powerful tool that empowers you to design and prototype intuitive, user-centric mobile applications. By following these quick tips, you can streamline your workflow, create polished app experiences, and bring your mobile app ideas to life. Remember, app design is an iterative process. Continuously test, refine, and learn from user feedback to ensure your app delivers a seamless and engaging experience. With dedication, practice, and the power of Figma, you can become a master of the mobile canvas.

Quick Tips for App Design and Prototyping in Figma

Imagine embarking on a long journey without a map or compass. The destination may be clear, but the path is fraught with uncertainty. This is precisely the situation many software projects find themselves in when they skip or inadequately invest in the discovery phase.

The discovery phase, the cornerstone of successful software development, is about laying the groundwork for a project. It's here that the "what" and "why" of your software take center stage. By dedicating time and effort to understanding the problem you're aiming to solve, the target audience, and the technical feasibility, you set your project up for a smooth journey towards a truly valuable solution.

The allure of diving straight into code development is understandable. However, a strong discovery phase offers several compelling benefits:

The discovery phase is an iterative process involving several crucial steps:

7. Information Architecture (IA) and User Interface (UI) Prototyping:

10. Communication and Stakeholder Buy-in:

Investing in the Discovery Phase: Reap the Rewards

The discovery phase may seem like an additional hurdle, but it's a wise

Building on Solid Ground

In the trenches of tech development, we at Djinn Digital know the pressure to innovate is relentless. The mobile app market is a battlefield, and the key to victory? A potent blend of creativity, efficiency, and a sprinkle of magic. That's where Generative AI (GAI) steps in, a game-changer poised to revolutionize how you bring your mobile app to life. Think of it as the genie in the digital lamp, granting wishes (or should we say, workflows) you never knew you needed.

But before we delve into GAI's app-launching sorcery, let's establish a common ground. ChatGPT and Gemini (previously Bard, a fun fact for trivia night!) are leading GAIs, capable of generating human-quality text, translating languages, writing different kinds of creative content, and even wrangling code. They're information powerhouses that can become your secret weapon.

Phase 1: Ideation and Concept Development

Imagine brainstorming sessions on steroids. Stuck for that killer app concept? GAI can analyze market trends, user behavior, and competitor data to spark unique ideas. Need to flesh out features? It can generate detailed user stories, outlining functionalities and potential user interactions. Brainstorming writer's block? Gone! GAI throws out creative prompts and storyboards, igniting your team's imagination.

Phase 2: Prototyping and User Interface (UI) Design

Shifting gears, GAI can craft initial wireframes and mockups based on your app's core functionalities. Need to test different UI layouts? It can generate variations in a flash, saving precious design time. Stuck on a particular UI element? GAI can propose alternative designs based on best practices and user preferences. It's like having a tireless design assistant working 24/7.

Content is king, and GAI can be your royal court writer. Need app descriptions that resonate with users? GAI can draft compelling copy in various tones and styles. Crafting marketing materials like website content, blog posts, and social media blurbs? It's a breeze for GAI, ensuring consistent messaging and SEO optimization. Plus, it can even generate captivating ad copy and translate it into multiple languages, expanding your reach globally.

Coders, rejoice! GAI can understand natural language and translate it into basic code snippets (think simple functions or boilerplate code). While it won't write your entire app, it can significantly accelerate development by automating repetitive tasks. And during testing, GAI can generate comprehensive test cases, covering various user scenarios and edge cases. This not only streamlines the process but also identifies potential bugs before launch.

Phase 5: Launch and Post-Launch Optimization

The big day has arrived! But GAI's magic doesn't stop here. It can analyze user reviews and app store feedback, gleaning valuable insights for improvement. Need to personalize the app experience based on user behavior? GAI can help you tailor in-app recommendations and content. Plus, it can generate data-driven reports to track key metrics and identify areas for optimization.

The Genie's Caveats: A Few Words of Caution

Like any powerful tool, GAI has its limitations. While its text generation is impressive, it's crucial to fact-check and edit outputs for accuracy and brand voice. Remember, it doesn't replace human creativity or critical thinking – it amplifies it. Additionally, GAI is still under development, so be mindful of potential biases in its outputs.

The Future is Now: Embrace the Generative AI Revolution

The mobile app landscape is constantly evolving, and GAI is the wind at your back, propelling you forward. At Djinn Digital, we're fervent believers in the power of this technology. By integrating GAI into your workflow, you'll unlock a new level of efficiency, unleash creative possibilities, and gain a significant edge in the competitive app market. So, are you ready to unleash the genie and make your mobile app dreams a reality? Let's chat – we'll help you craft the magic spell!

Supercharge Your App Launch With Generative AI

As mobile technology continues to evolve, businesses and developers are constantly debating whether to build hybrid or native apps. Both types of apps have their own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one largely depends on the specific requirements of the project.

Native apps are developed for a specific platform, such as iOS or Android, using programming languages like Swift or Java. These apps are designed to provide the best possible user experience on the specific platform they are developed for.

Flutter is a popular open-source framework used to build hybrid apps that work on multiple platforms, including iOS, Android, and the web. Flutter uses the Dart programming language and provides a rich set of pre-built widgets.

Choosing between hybrid Flutter and native apps depends on the specific requirements of the project. Native apps provide better performance, user experience, and integration, but can be more expensive and time-consuming to develop and maintain. Hybrid Flutter apps, on the other hand, are more cost-effective, can have a broader reach, and require less maintenance, but may have limitations in performance, user experience, and integration.

Ultimately, businesses and developers should carefully consider their project requirements and choose the app type that best meets their needs. If cross-platform support is important, and the app doesn't require intensive graphics or hardware integration, hybrid Flutter may be a better choice. If performance and platform-specific features are critical, native app development.

Mobile app development service

Mobile Apps: Hybrid vs Native app development

In recent years, there has been an explosion in the number of productivity tools and software available for businesses. Tech companies, in particular, rely heavily on these tools to streamline their operations, automate tasks, and enhance their overall efficiency. Here are our top 10 productivity tools and software that tech companies should consider using in 2023:

In conclusion, these are the top 10 new productivity tools and software that tech companies should consider using in 2023. Each tool has its unique set of features and benefits, and they can help companies improve their productivity, streamline their workflows, and enhance their overall efficiency. By incorporating these tools into their operations, tech companies can stay ahead of the competition and achieve their goals more efficiently.

Top 10 productivity tools for tech companies in 2023

Taking the leap from being an employee to a freelancer can be both exciting and challenging for 

. On one hand, you get the freedom to choose your own clients, projects, and working hours. On the other hand, you have to manage your own finances, marketing, and client relations. In this post, we'll explore some tips and considerations for software engineers who are considering making the transition from employee to freelancer.

As a freelancer, you will need to showcase your skills and experience to potential clients. A strong portfolio that showcases your best work can help you stand out in a crowded market. Make sure your portfolio is up-to-date and showcases your best work. If you don't have any freelance experience yet, consider taking on some small projects or contributing to open source projects to build up your portfolio.

Networking is key to finding new clients and building relationships in the freelance community. Attend industry events, join online communities, and connect with other freelancers and potential clients on social media. Don't be afraid to reach out and introduce yourself to people in your network.

As a freelancer, you will be responsible for setting your own rates. Research the market and determine what other freelancers in your field are charging. Be realistic about your own skills and experience and set your rates accordingly. Don't undervalue yourself, but also be willing to negotiate with clients if necessary.

As a freelancer, you will need to manage your own finances, track your time, and handle client communications. Set up a system for tracking your expenses and invoicing clients. Consider using tools like Toggl or Harvest for time tracking and project management. Set aside time each day or week to respond to client emails and keep your projects on track.

Make sure you have contracts in place with your clients that outline the scope of your work, deadlines, and payment terms. Consider working with a lawyer to draft a standard contract that you can use with all your clients. Make sure you have adequate insurance coverage to protect yourself in case of any issues or disputes.

As a freelancer, you may need to be flexible with your working hours and project timelines. Be willing to adapt to your clients' needs, but also set boundaries and don't let them take advantage of you. Remember that you are running a business and your time is valuable.

In conclusion, transitioning from employee to freelancer can be a great opportunity for software engineers who want to have more control over their careers. Building a strong portfolio, networking, setting your rates, getting organized, protecting yourself, and being flexible are all important considerations for making the leap to freelance work. Good luck on your journey!

Making the transition from employee to freelancer

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way businesses operate. From improving customer experience to reducing operational costs, AI is transforming industries across the board. One of the key ways AI is making an impact is through automating tasks. Here’s a look at how AI is being used to automate tasks in different industries.

Healthcare is one of the industries that stand to benefit the most from AI automation. AI can be used to automate a range of tasks, including data analysis, image recognition, and medical diagnosis. For example, AI algorithms can be used to analyze patient data and help doctors make more informed decisions. This can lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses, and ultimately, improved patient outcomes.

The finance industry has also been quick to adopt AI automation. AI algorithms are being used to automate tasks such as financial analysis, risk management, and fraud detection. For example, AI can be used to analyze large amounts of data to identify potential fraud in real-time. This helps financial institutions to quickly respond to potential threats, reduce costs, and improve the overall security of their systems.

Manufacturing is another industry that is embracing AI automation. AI algorithms can be used to automate tasks such as supply chain management, predictive maintenance, and quality control. For example, AI can be used to monitor production processes and identify potential issues before they become problems. This helps manufacturers to reduce downtime, improve efficiency, and increase productivity.

Retail is another industry that is leveraging AI automation to improve operations. AI algorithms can be used to automate tasks such as inventory management, customer service, and sales analysis. For example, AI can be used to analyze customer behavior and suggest products they may be interested in. This can help retailers to increase sales, improve customer experience, and reduce operational costs.

AI is transforming industries across the board, and one of the key ways it is doing so is through automation. From healthcare to finance, retail to manufacturing, AI algorithms are being used to automate tasks and improve operations. As AI technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more industries embrace automation and reap the benefits.
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AI Development Service

How AI can be used to automate your industry

Blockchain technology is revolutionizing the way businesses and industries operate by increasing transparency, security, and efficiency. The decentralized and immutable nature of blockchain makes it a perfect fit for various sectors, in this blog post we will explore how blockchain can be integrated

Blockchain technology is making its mark in many industries and has the potential to change the way we do business. Whether it's improving supply chain management, healthcare, finance, real estate, government, or energy, blockchain is sure to have a big impact.

Each type of blockchain service has its own unique features and strengths, and here are a few of the most popular:

Blockchain technology has been gaining traction in recent years, and there are now a variety of blockchain services available. Each type of blockchain service has its own unique features and strengths, and here are a few of the most popular:

In conclusion, each type of blockchain service offers its own unique strengths and is designed for specific use cases. Whether you're looking for increased security, faster transaction processing times, or greater privacy, there's a blockchain service that's right for you. By understanding the different types of blockchain services and their advantages, you can make an informed decision about which blockchain service is best for your business needs.

How blockchain can be integrated into your business

Microservices and standalone tools are two popular architectural patterns that can be used to build highly scalable and resilient applications. In this blog post, we'll explore a use case for microservices and standalone tools, and discuss how they can be used together to build a robust and efficient system.

A common use case for microservices is building a large, complex application that needs to handle a high volume of traffic. For example, imagine you're building an e-commerce platform that needs to handle thousands of concurrent users and perform a variety of tasks, such as processing payments, managing inventory, and handling customer data.

In this scenario, a monolithic architecture would not be the best choice, as it would be difficult to scale and maintain. Instead, you could use microservices to break down the application into smaller, independent components that can be developed, tested, and deployed independently.

Each microservice would be responsible for a specific set of functionality, such as managing payments, inventory, or customer data. This allows for each service to scale independently, and allows for more efficient development and testing.

In addition to microservices, standalone tools can also be used to improve the scalability and resilience of the system. Standalone tools are small, independent programs that can be used to perform a specific task, such as processing payments or managing inventory.

For example, you could use a standalone tool to handle payment processing, which would be responsible for communicating with payment gateways, handling transactions, and updating the inventory system. This would allow the payment processing component to scale independently of the rest of the system, and would also make it easier to test and maintain.

Overall, microservices and standalone tools are powerful architectural patterns that can be used to build highly scalable and resilient applications. By breaking down a large, complex system into smaller, independent components, and using standalone tools to perform specific tasks, you can create a robust and efficient system that can handle a high volume of traffic.

 A use case for micro services & standalone tools

Building a mobile app can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and execution, it can be a seamless and enjoyable experience. In this blog post, we will take a look at the process of planning, building, and releasing a mobile app, including the key steps and considerations along the way.

The first step in building a mobile app is to plan it out. This includes determining the target audience, the features and functionality of the app, and the overall design and user experience. It's also important to research the competition and existing apps in the same space to see what works and what doesn't. This can be done by creating a user persona, a detailed description of the app's target user. Once you have a clear understanding of your target audience, you can begin to map out the features and functionality of the app. This should include a list of must-have features, as well as any additional features that would be nice to have.

After planning, the next step is to start building the app. This includes designing the app's user interface, developing the app's functionality, and testing the app to ensure it works as expected. There are a number of different ways to build a mobile app, including using a cross-platform development tool, such as React Native or Flutter, or building the app natively for each platform (iOS and Android).

Before releasing the app, it's important to thoroughly test it to ensure it's free of bugs and runs smoothly on various devices and platforms. This includes both functional testing, which ensures that the app works as intended, and usability testing, which ensures that the app is user-friendly and easy to navigate.

Once the app has been thoroughly tested and any bugs have been fixed, it's time to release it to the public. This typically involves submitting the app to the appropriate app store (Apple's App Store for iOS apps and Google Play for Android apps), where it will be reviewed before being made available for download.

In summary, building a mobile app requires careful planning, building, testing, and releasing. By following these steps, you can ensure that your app is well-designed, functional, and user-friendly, and that it stands out in the crowded mobile app market.


If you would like to learn more about how you can make your idea a reality, contact us today; We love making good ideas come to life.

You have a good idea for an app, what next?

Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years, and software development is no exception. Working with remote software development teams or freelancers can offer a number of benefits, including access to a wider pool of talent, cost savings, and the ability to work flexibly. However, it's important to follow best practices in order to ensure the success of your project.

One key benefit of working with remote software development teams is the ability to tap into a global pool of talent. With the internet, it's easier than ever to connect with top developers from around the world. This can be especially useful if you need specialized skills that are difficult to find locally.

Another advantage of remote work is cost savings. By working with remote teams or freelancers, you can save on overhead costs such as office space and utilities. This can be especially beneficial for small businesses or startups with limited budgets.

Remote work also offers greater flexibility, which can be a big advantage for both employers and employees. With remote work, employees have the freedom to work from anywhere, which can lead to increased productivity and job satisfaction. Employers can also take advantage of this flexibility by allowing team members to work at different times of day or in different time zones, which can be useful for meeting deadlines and working with clients in different parts of the world.

However, working with remote teams or freelancers also comes with its own set of challenges. It's important to establish clear communication and collaboration processes to ensure that everyone is on the same page. This can include regular video calls, shared project management tools, and written documentation.

In order to maximize the benefits of remote software development teams, it's also important to establish trust and build strong relationships. This can involve setting clear expectations, establishing open lines of communication, and being open to feedback.

Overall, working with remote software development teams or freelancers can offer a number of benefits, including access to a global pool of talent, cost savings, and greater flexibility. By following best practices and building strong relationships, you can ensure the success of your project.

Working with remote software developers and freelancers

At part of the program there will be an initial 3 month period that allows us to examine if you will be a good fit, and also allows you to be sure you want to join us.

You will be doing 10hrs of work a week, either in office or remote; each month you will be working on different types of projects and tech:

 Building frontend websites using React, Typescript, NextJS, TailwindCSS, React Admin - you will be given high fidelity designs to work from and support with turning those designs into functional systems

: Building high performance test driven api’s and backend services using Laravel as well as exposure to some server-less solutions in AWS and Supabase

 Building functional and speedy mobile apps and desktop applications  using Flutter; as well as gaining some experience into mobile app deployment and submission to the AppStore and Google play.

For this initial period you will be paid £10/hr potentially £15 if you are more experienced then the average junior developer.

Once your initial observation period is over a decision will be made to have you on full time, you will then start the onboarding process and receive any equipment you might need.  Salary for our junior developers start at £25, 000 a year, all wages within the company are completely transparent and fair based on experience and performance.

If you think you are a good fit for the program please drop us an email with some details about you and what you’ve done to 

Junior developer program

As a software development team, it's important to continually improve and optimize your processes to ensure that you are delivering high-quality products to your customers efficiently. Here are 10 steps you can take to improve your software development process:

By following these steps, you can improve your software development process and deliver better products to your customers.

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