Introduction to Figma
Figma is a cloud based design tool that can be used to create, share, and test designs for websites and mobile apps. It streamlines collaboration among designers, developers, and project managers, allowing each team member to contribute, provide feedback, and make quicker, more informed design decisions.
With its Dev Mode feature, designers and developers can stay aligned throughout the process, ensuring important details aren’t overlooked during handoff. Inspecting component properties, such as colour codes and spacing, makes it easier to create and share consistent styles. The ability to annotate design files with extra context and precise measurements enhances clarity and accelerates the development timeline.
Adobe as the ‘industry standard’
Adobe is known worldwide for its multimedia and creativity tools, including Photoshop, Acrobat Reader, and Creative Cloud. Over decades of innovation and consistency, Adobe has solidified its position as an industry standard. Its products have fostered deep brand loyalty, and designers using Adobe software can be confident they’re working within the same formats and systems as their collaborators, which ensures seamless workflows.
Figma and Adobe: What are their strengths and weaknesses?
While both Figma and Adobe serve similar purposes in digital design, they each bring advantages and limitations depending on user needs and workflows.
Figma Strengths
- Real Time Collaboration – Allows users to work together on designs in real time, with stakeholders not needing an account to access prototypes and designs.
- Cloud Based Storage – Designs are saved automatically and digital files can be accessed anywhere as long as there’s an internet connection.
Figma Weaknesses
- Weaker Image Editing Tools – Image editing capabilities are weaker compared to software like Adobe.
- Requires Internet Connection – Figma is online-based, so you need an internet connection to use it.
Adobe Strengths
- In Depth Image Editing Features – Adobe offers depth and precision in editing, along with helpful introductory tutorials for new users.
- Component Library – Enables users to share assets across files, streamlining consistency in design projects.
- Mobile Version – Allow users to continue working on designs while on the go.
- Permanent internet connection not required – You can still use your Adobe products if you don’t have an internet connection (although you will need to regularly connect to the internet to validate your subscription).
Adobe Weaknesses
- Clunky Workflows – The software can feel slower and less efficient compared to newer competitors.
- No Real Time Collaboration – Adobe XD doesn’t support real time collaborative editing, limiting team interaction during the design process.
- The User Interface is less intuitive than other software – Tutorials and training are pretty much essential to get to grips with the Adobe suite.
Industry Perspectives
At Hydra Creative, Figma is integral to our daily design work, from UI design and prototyping to managing component libraries. It simplifies design reviews, accelerates iterations, and smooths the handover to development processes. Figma’s flexibility, especially when it comes to layout and responsive design, gives it an edge over tools like Adobe XD.
However, Adobe still plays a crucial role in our design process, particularly for prints, illustrations, and image editing. While it’s no longer a primary tool for bespoke website design, Adobe serves as an invaluable complementary tool.
How can Hydra Creative support you with your digital marketing strategy?
At Hydra Creative, we combine the strengths of both Figma and Adobe to deliver designs that not only look great but perform well. Our design team uses Figma daily to streamline UX, prototyping, and development handoffs, while Adobe’s powerful suite supports our visual and branding work.
As a full-service digital marketing agency, we understand that every project is unique, and collaboration is at the core of our process. Whether you’re looking to refine your brand or redesign your website, our designers and developers work together to bring your vision to life.
Get in touch today for a free initial consultation.
