In the world of design, creating immersive prototypes that dynamically change based on user interactions is essential. Figma, a popular design tool, offers a powerful feature called “variables” that allows designers to achieve this level of interactivity. In this article, we will explore the concept of variables in prototypes, their benefits, and how to use them effectively.

Understanding Variables in Prototypes

In Figma, variables are stored values that represent design attributes or saved states. They can be of different types, including string, number, color, or boolean. By utilizing prototyping actions, designers can set and modify the values of these variables, enabling the creation of prototypes that respond to user selection with minimal effort.

Let’s take a closer look at the capabilities of variables in prototypes:

Update Text Content with String Variables

With string variables, you can dynamically change the text content within your prototypes. This feature is particularly useful when you want to display different variations of text based on user interactions.

Change Object Dimensions and Properties with Number Variables

Number variables allow you to modify object dimensions, corner radius, or auto layout properties within your prototypes. This flexibility enables designers to create dynamic layouts that adapt to different scenarios.

Toggle Layer Visibility with Boolean Variables

Boolean variables are ideal for controlling layer visibility within prototypes. By toggling the value of a boolean variable, designers can show or hide specific elements, providing an interactive and engaging user experience.

Getting Started with Variables in Prototypes

To begin using variables in your prototypes, you need to set them up and assign values. Follow these steps to get started:

Step 1: Create Your Variables

Start by creating your variables. Figma provides a straightforward process to create and organize variable collections. Refer to Figma’s official documentation to learn more about creating and managing variables.

Step 2: Apply Variables

Once you’ve created your variables, it’s time to apply them to various design elements within your project. You can apply variables to text content, object dimensions, layer visibility, and more. This step ensures that your design elements are connected to the corresponding variables.

Step 3: Set Variable Values

After you’ve created and applied variables throughout your design, you can use the “Set variable” action to change or modify their values based on prototype triggers. Follow these steps to set variable values:

1. Create a prototype interaction in Figma.
2. Navigate to the Interaction details panel and select a trigger from the dropdown menu.
3. From the Actions dropdown menu, choose “Set variable.”
4. Select the target variable from the dropdown menu.
5. In the Write expression field, enter a new value for the variable. Make sure the value type matches the variable type (e.g., number for number variables, true/false for boolean variables).

Once you’ve set up the “Set variable” action, play your prototype to test the interaction and observe how the variable values change dynamically.

Advanced Features for Variable-powered Prototypes

Once you’re comfortable with using variables in prototypes, you can explore some advanced features to enhance their power further. Consider trying the following:

Expressions: Manipulate Variables with Basic Operations

Figma allows you to manipulate variables using basic operations. By incorporating expressions, you can create more advanced prototypes with flexible values. For example, you can perform basic math on number variables, combine multiple string variables, or use boolean expressions.

Multiple Actions and Conditionals

Take advantage of if/else statements to check if a specific condition is met before performing actions. Additionally, you can stack an unlimited number of actions on a single trigger, enabling complex interactions within your prototypes.

Learn More and Get Hands-on Experience

If you’re new to variables in Figma, take some time to explore the various resources available to learn more about their capabilities. Figma provides “Try it out” tutorials within each section, allowing you to gain hands-on experience and deepen your understanding of how variables work.

For those seeking more practice and experimentation, Figma offers an advanced prototyping playground file that you can explore and learn from.

Conclusion

Variables in prototypes unlock a new level of interactivity and dynamism in design. By leveraging the power of variables, designers can create prototypes that adapt and respond to user interactions, resulting in more engaging and immersive user experiences.

Incorporate variables into your design workflow and explore their advanced features like expressions and conditionals to take your prototypes to the next level. Experiment, learn, and enjoy the creative possibilities that variables bring to your designs.

Introduction

In the fast-paced world of design and development, staying ahead of the curve is absolutely crucial. Figma, the undisputed champion of collaborative design tools, has once again blown our minds with their mind-boggling new features and updates for 2023. Brace yourself, because we’re about to take a deep dive into the exhilarating world of Figma [Config 2023], where the realms of design and development intertwine effortlessly. Get ready to witness enhanced workflows, unprecedented collaboration, and a glimpse into the future of this jaw-dropping arena.

Design and Development, Finally on the Same Page

Dev Mode

Introducing Dev Mode, an extraordinary space within Figma that completely revolutionizes the way design and development intersect. Dev Mode brilliantly streamlines the transition from design to development, arming designers with cutting-edge tools to flawlessly prepare files for production. With Dev Mode by your side, designers can ramp up their speed and efficiency, guaranteeing an impeccable handoff to the esteemed developers. Prepare to be blown away by this game-changing feature!

Get the Info You Need to Start Coding Faster

Dev Mode is an essential tool that streamlines the development process, providing all the necessary information in a convenient and accessible way. From measurements and specifications to styles and production-ready code, Dev Mode equips users with everything they need to initiate their creative journey. You can rely on Dev Mode to simplify your workflow and make the development experience seamless.

Create a Better Design-to-Development Process

Seamless collaboration between design and development teams is essential for project success. Figma introduces section status, allowing teams to track progress effortlessly. By highlighting which frames are “ready for development,” everyone involved can stay on the same page. Additionally, designers can compare design versions, enabling them to identify changes quickly and effectively.

Bring Your Workflow into Figma

Connect Designs with Component Code and Developer Documentation

Figma goes above and beyond by integrating with popular tools like Jira, Storybook, and GitHub. This integration allows designers to connect their designs directly with component code and developer documentation. By bridging this gap, Figma streamlines the workflow and enhances collaboration between designers and developers.

Figma’s VS Code Extension

Figma’s VS Code extension takes collaboration to the next level. Developers can now inspect files, collaborate seamlessly with designers, and receive real-time notifications, all without leaving their code editor. This integration ensures that developers can work within their preferred development environment while staying connected to their design team.

The Flexibility to Create in a Framework That Scales

Variables, Now in Figma

Figma introduces variables, unlocking the ability to create design themes such as light and dark or mobile and desktop. By exporting variables into tokens and utilizing the REST API, designers can align their design systems with their codebase effectively. Please note that feature availability may vary based on your chosen plan.

Your Vision, Now More Than Just a Visual

With Figma’s advanced prototyping capabilities, designers can build realistic prototypes swiftly and efficiently. Advanced features like conditional logic, mathematical expressions, and variables enable designers to create prototypes with fewer frames, streamlining the design process. The inline preview feature allows for quick changes and real-time updates, enhancing the overall prototyping experience. Please note that advanced prototyping features are available on the Professional plan and above.

New Ways to Use Auto Layout

Auto layout is a powerful tool in Figma, and Config 2023 introduces new functionalities to make designing even more efficient. Designers can now wrap items to a new line and set minimum and maximum widths and heights, minimizing the need for manual resizing. This enhancement allows designers to focus on creativity and design rather than repetitive tasks.

Peruse and Preview Fonts

Choosing the right typeface is vital for effective design. With Figma’s latest updates, designers can now peruse and preview fonts more efficiently. Improved search, filters, and font previews in Figma’s font picker provide designers with the tools they need to find the perfect typeface for any project, saving valuable time and effort.

Find Files with Ease

Searching for specific files and content can be a tedious task, especially in a collaborative environment. Figma’s global search and notification features alleviate this challenge by enabling users to find content and conversations effortlessly. Whether the content was created by you, others, or within external teams, Figma ensures that you can always locate what you’re looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Figma’s latest updates revolutionizes the design and development landscape by bringing teams closer together. With features like Dev Mode, enhanced collaboration tools, and improved workflows, Figma empowers designers and developers to work seamlessly. The introduction of variables, advanced prototyping capabilities, and new auto layout functionalities further enhance Figma’s versatility and scalability. Embrace the future of design and development with Figma and unlock limitless possibilities.