For UX Designers

AI-Assisted UX Methods

How I use AI across the double diamond. Select a phase to see where it fits into my process.

Problem spaceSolution spaceDefinePrototype& TestHandoffDiscover

Phase 1 · Problem space

Discover

Ground myself in the industry before I walk into a session.

Before any interview, I use AI to learn how this line of work generally runs, so sessions start from informed questions. It only makes me familiar with the domain. Every project’s workflows are different.

How I work

  • Deep-research the industry and the business process to understand how the work actually happens
  • Draft a service blueprint showing the roles, handoffs, and systems involved
  • Build a glossary of the domain’s terms, roles, and acronyms
  • List assumptions and hypotheses to confirm or kill in sessions
  • Write discussion guides from the gaps

Validation

Interviews and proper research with stakeholders and users show how work actually happens on this project. Anything AI told me stays an assumption until then.

Earlier version

The Original Guide

This is the first version of the guide, written from my initial learnings. It is comprehensive but heavier than how I work now. The double diamond above is the slimmed-down approach I actually use today; everything below is the full reference it was distilled from.

Take the whole guide with you

One markdown file — every method, every prompt, every tool guide. Grep it, paste it into Claude Code as project context, or just keep it offline.

⬇ Download the guide (.md)
Phase 1

Discover

Get oriented in the problem space before talking to stakeholders. Use AI to build an industry-grounded foundation you can take into research and validate — so you walk into the first conversation already oriented, not starting from scratch.

8 methods

This is your foundation method. Everything downstream—your research plan, your discussion guide, your personas—gets sharper when you have an industry-grounded blueprint first. It's also the highest return on tokens spent at this stage. The Research Discussion Guide is a close second because it directly converts your blueprint gaps into something you can walk into an interview with.

Additional Methods

Stakeholder Identification

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTService Blueprint (Phase 1)

Why it helps

Surfaces all the roles and teams involved before interviews begin. Expect a list of stakeholder types, their responsibilities, and where they intersect. Helps you build your research plan and avoid missing key voices.

What to provide

Your service blueprint or a description of the process and domain.

Prompt example

Based on this service blueprint, identify all stakeholders and user types involved. For each, describe their role in the process, their key responsibilities, and where they interact with other stakeholders.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Service blueprint or process description: [paste]</context> Identify all stakeholders and user types involved. For each produce: role title, key responsibilities, decision-making authority, interaction points with other stakeholders, and likely pain points. Format as a structured table. Flag any roles that appear in the process but are not accounted for in the blueprint.

ChatGPT

You are a UX researcher preparing for stakeholder interviews. Based on this service blueprint [paste], identify all stakeholders and user types. For each describe their role, responsibilities, and where they interact with others. Then give me a prioritized interview order — who should I talk to first and why, based on their influence over the process.

Gemini

Based on this service blueprint [paste], generate a comprehensive stakeholder map for [domain]. Drawing from industry norms, identify all roles typically involved — including ones that may not be visible in the blueprint but commonly exist in this type of organization. For each describe responsibilities, interaction points, and influence level. Flag any role gaps.

Copilot

Using this service blueprint [paste], create a stakeholder identification document formatted for a PowerPoint presentation. List all stakeholders with their roles and responsibilities. Format each as a concise bullet list suitable for a project kickoff slide. Group stakeholders into: Primary Users, Internal Stakeholders, and External/Support Roles.

Before you move on

Cross-reference against the org chart or project brief. Run the list by your main client contact before scheduling interviews — roles are often split differently in practice than they appear on paper.

Persona Generation

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTStakeholder Identification (Phase 1)Service Blueprint (Phase 1)

Why it helps

Gives you a hypothesis-driven starting point before interviews rather than a blank page after them. AI synthesizes your stakeholder list, service blueprint, and workshop notes into a structured persona — role, goals, frustrations, behaviors, and context. Expect a draft you can walk into research with and pressure-test, not a finished artifact.

What to provide

Your stakeholder list, service blueprint or process map, any raw workshop or interview notes, and which stakeholder type you're building the persona for.

Prompt example

Based on this stakeholder list and service blueprint [paste both], generate a UX persona for [stakeholder type]. Include their role, primary goals, key frustrations, typical behaviors, and the context in which they interact with the system. Frame it as a hypothesis to be validated in research.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Stakeholder type: [type] | Blueprint: [paste] | Stakeholder list: [paste] | Research notes if available: [paste]</context> Generate a hypothesis-driven UX persona. Include: role and context, 3 primary goals, 3 key frustrations, typical behaviors, and a representative quote. Label every attribute as a hypothesis. Add a 'To validate' section listing the 3 assumptions most critical to confirm in research.

ChatGPT

You are a UX researcher building a research hypothesis persona. Based on this stakeholder list and service blueprint [paste both], generate a persona for [stakeholder type]. Include their role, goals, frustrations, behaviors, and context. Then add a section called 'Research questions to validate this persona' with 5 specific interview questions targeting the most uncertain attributes.

Gemini

Drawing from industry patterns in [domain], generate a UX persona for [stakeholder type] based on this blueprint [paste]. Ground each attribute in how this role type typically behaves across the industry — not just assumptions. Include role summary, goals, frustrations, behaviors, and a quote. Add a research confidence score (Low/Medium/High) for each attribute.

Copilot

Create a UX persona document for [stakeholder type] based on this service blueprint [paste]. Format it as a one-page Word document suitable for sharing with a client. Include: role description, top 3 goals, top 3 frustrations, key behaviors, and a representative quote. Keep language free of UX jargon so non-design stakeholders can engage with it.

Before you move on

Treat every attribute as a hypothesis, not a fact. Validate each goal, frustration, and behavior directly in research interviews. Update the persona after each round — a persona that hasn't been touched since it was generated hasn't been validated.

Competitive & Heuristic Review

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTGemini

Why it helps

Gets you oriented on how others have already solved this problem, and where the conventions are. Expect a structured comparison of how comparable products handle the workflow you're designing, plus a heuristic read on the patterns they share. Most useful as ammunition for the 'why can't we just do it like X' conversation — you'll have actually looked at X.

What to provide

The workflow or product area you're reviewing, a list of competitors or comparable products if you have one, and the user type whose perspective matters.

Prompt example

Review how comparable products handle [workflow] in [domain]. For each, describe their approach, the pattern they use, and the tradeoff it implies. Then assess the common patterns against standard usability heuristics — where the convention is sound, and where it's just inherited. Note which approaches depend on constraints we may not share.

Tip on prompting

Use a model with live web access for this one, and ask it to say when it's working from general knowledge rather than something it has just looked at. Interface details go stale faster than almost anything else you'll ask about.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Workflow: [workflow] | Domain: [domain] | Comparable products: [list if known] | User type: [type]</context> Review how comparable products handle this workflow. For each: their approach, the underlying pattern, and the tradeoff it implies. Then evaluate the shared patterns against usability heuristics — which conventions are sound and which are merely inherited. Mark clearly which claims come from documented knowledge and which are inference, and list every specific interface claim I should verify myself before using it.

ChatGPT

You are a UX designer running a competitive review of [workflow] in [domain]. Compare how [products, or 'the main players'] approach it. For each, describe the pattern and its tradeoff. Then give me the three approaches most worth borrowing and the three most worth avoiding, with reasoning. Tell me explicitly where you're uncertain about current interface details.

Gemini

Research how comparable products currently handle [workflow] in [domain] and give me a structured comparison. For each product: approach, pattern used, and tradeoff. Prioritise current information over general knowledge, cite what you find, and evaluate the common patterns against standard usability heuristics. Flag anything you could not verify.

Before you move on

This is the method most likely to produce confident detail about products the model hasn't actually seen. Open the products yourself and verify every specific claim before it reaches a deck — treat the output as a list of things to go check, not findings. Anything you can't verify firsthand comes out.

Screener & Survey Design

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTResearch Discussion Guide (Phase 1)

Why it helps

Drafts the recruitment screener and any supporting survey so you get the right participants and clean quantitative backup. Expect screening questions that filter without telegraphing the desired answer, and survey items written to avoid the usual damage — leading phrasing, double-barrelled questions, unbalanced scales. Getting the wrong participants is the most expensive research mistake available, and it happens at this step.

What to provide

The user type you need to recruit, your study goals, how many participants you need, and any disqualifying criteria.

Prompt example

Write a recruitment screener for [user type] for a study about [topic]. Include qualifying questions, disqualifying criteria, and questions that verify claimed experience without signalling which answers qualify. Then draft a short supporting survey covering [topics]. Flag any question that is leading, double-barrelled, or uses an unbalanced scale.

Tip on prompting

Ask it to critique its own questions for bias after drafting them. It catches a surprising amount that way, and it's faster than reviewing the whole set yourself line by line.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>User type to recruit: [type] | Study goals: [goals] | Participants needed: [number] | Disqualifiers: [list]</context> Write a recruitment screener and a short supporting survey. The screener needs qualifying questions, disqualifying criteria, and experience-verification questions that don't reveal which answers qualify. Then review your own output and flag any question that leads the participant, combines two questions in one, uses an unbalanced scale, or could be answered accurately by someone who doesn't fit the criteria.

ChatGPT

You are a UX researcher writing a recruitment screener for [user type] for a study on [topic]. Include qualifying and disqualifying questions and a way to verify claimed experience without signalling the right answer. Then draft a supporting survey covering [topics]. Afterwards, critique your own questions for bias and rewrite any that fail.

Gemini

Draft a recruitment screener for [user type] studying [topic], plus a short supporting survey covering [topics]. Ground the screening criteria in how this role typically works in [domain] — including ways someone might appear qualified on paper but not in practice. Flag leading, double-barrelled, or unbalanced questions.

Copilot

Create a recruitment screener and supporting survey for [user type] for a study on [topic], formatted as a Word document the team can send out. Include qualifying questions, disqualifiers, and experience verification. Use plain, neutral language and number every question for easy reference during recruitment.

Before you move on

Pilot the screener on two or three people before you open recruitment — screeners fail quietly, and you only discover it when someone unqualified shows up to a session. Check that no qualifying question makes the 'right' answer obvious, and that your scales are balanced and your response options actually cover the range.

Current State Process Map

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTMiro or FigJam (to present)Service Blueprint (Phase 1)

Why it helps

Condenses a complex service blueprint into a digestible linear process map stakeholders can actually engage with. Expect a step-by-step flow organized by high-level phases with nested micro-interactions — framed around user actions, not system logic. Use this as your workshop artifact.

What to provide

Your service blueprint and any validation notes from the product team.

Prompt example

Condense this service blueprint into a process map with 5–7 high-level steps. Each step should show the primary user action, supporting roles involved, and key micro-interactions within it. Format it as a linear flow a non-technical stakeholder can follow.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Service blueprint: [paste] | Validation notes: [paste if available]</context> Condense this into a current state process map organized around user actions — not system logic. Format as: 4–6 high-level phases, each with step-by-step actions, decision points with labeled branches, and 1–2 pain points. Output clean markdown. Flag any step that is based on an assumption rather than documented input.

ChatGPT

Based on this service blueprint [paste], create a simplified current state process map focused on what the user actually does — not what the system does backstage. Organize into 4–6 phases with step-by-step actions and decision points. Highlight the top 3 friction moments. Format so a non-designer stakeholder can follow it in a workshop without explanation.

Gemini

Using this service blueprint [paste], generate a current state process map that reflects how [domain] processes actually operate in practice — including informal steps, workarounds, and friction points that don't appear in official documentation. Structure around user actions with clearly labeled decision points. Note where real-world behavior diverges from the stated process.

Copilot

Based on this service blueprint [paste], create a current state process map formatted as a table in Word. Columns: Phase, User Action, Decision Point (Yes/No), Pain Point, Notes. Use plain language appropriate for a client presentation. Add a brief title and one-sentence description above the table for context.

Before you move on

Walk it through at least one internal stakeholder before using it in a workshop. Expect corrections — surfacing those corrections is the whole point. A map no one has pushed back on hasn't been validated.

Swimlane Diagrams

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTMiro or FigJamMermaid (optional)Interview notes or process documentation

Why it helps

When you're orienting on an unfamiliar workflow, a swimlane makes the actors visible in a way a process map alone doesn't. Each lane represents a role — you can immediately see who owns each step, where handoffs happen, and which roles interact most. Use this early to pressure-test your understanding of the process before you design anything.

What to provide

Notes from stakeholder interviews or observations, a list of all roles involved in the workflow, and any existing process documentation.

Prompt example

Based on these interview notes and process documentation, generate a swimlane diagram for the [workflow name] process. Create a lane for each role involved. Show every action, decision point, and handoff between roles in sequence. Add a CSV export option with columns: Step, Role, Action, Handoff To, Notes.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Interview notes: [paste] | Roles involved: [list] | Workflow name: [name]</context> Generate a swimlane diagram for this workflow. One lane per role. Show every action, decision point, and handoff in sequence. Include a CSV export format below the diagram with columns: Step, Role, Action, Handoff To, Notes. Flag any step where role ownership is ambiguous or where the trigger for a handoff is not clearly defined.

ChatGPT

Based on these interview notes [paste] and this list of roles [list], generate a swimlane diagram for the [workflow name] process. Create a lane for each role. Show every action, decision point, and handoff in order. After the diagram, provide a CSV version I can import into a spreadsheet with columns: Step, Role, Action, Handoff To, Notes.

Gemini

Using these interview notes [paste] and roles [list], generate a swimlane diagram for [workflow name]. One lane per role. Show all actions, decisions, and handoffs. Cross-reference against how [domain] workflows typically operate — flag any lane assignment that deviates from common practice, as these are likely to come up in stakeholder review.

Copilot

Based on these interview notes [paste], create a swimlane diagram for [workflow name]. Roles: [list]. Format as a structured table with roles as columns and steps as rows. Mark handoffs with an arrow (→). Include a CSV-compatible version below with columns: Step, Role, Action, Handoff To, Notes. Plain language throughout — this will be reviewed with non-technical stakeholders.

Before you move on

Share with at least one person who does the work — not just a manager who oversees it. Role ownership and handoffs are the most commonly misassigned parts of a swimlane when built from interviews alone.

Phase 2

Define

Synthesize what you learned into a shared problem definition the team can act on. Use AI to turn raw research into structured insight — a brief for the design team and a document stakeholders can validate.

7 methods

Start with Pain Point Synthesis — it converts your raw interview findings into the structured input that everything else in this phase depends on. From there, the Journey Map is the artifact that aligns stakeholders around a shared direction, and the Future State Process Map becomes the direct bridge into Phase 3. Run them in that order.

Additional Methods

How Might We Statements

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTPain Point Synthesis (Phase 2)

Why it helps

Bridges the gap between research findings and design ideation by reframing pain points as design opportunities. Expect a set of HMW prompts that are specific enough to be actionable but open enough to allow creative solutions. Use them to kick off ideation sessions or to align the team on what problems you're actually solving.

What to provide

Your pain point synthesis and any additional insights from stakeholder workshops.

Prompt example

Convert these pain points [paste list] into How Might We statements. Each statement should reframe the pain point as a design opportunity — specific enough to be actionable but open enough to allow multiple solutions. Group them by theme and flag the top 3 highest-priority opportunities.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Pain point synthesis: [paste] | Workshop insights: [paste if available]</context> Convert each pain point into a How Might We statement. Rules: each statement must start with 'How might we', must not imply a specific solution, and must be narrow enough to act on. Group by theme. For each theme produce 2–3 HMW options so the team can choose the best framing. Flag any statement that accidentally implies a solution — those need rewriting.

ChatGPT

You are a UX researcher facilitating a design ideation session. Based on these pain points [paste], convert each into a How Might We statement. Group by theme. For each theme generate 2 HMW variants — one broad and one narrow — so the team can choose the right level. After the list, recommend the top 3 HMW statements to prioritize and explain your reasoning.

Gemini

Convert these pain points [paste] into How Might We statements using design thinking principles. Ensure each statement reframes a problem as a design opportunity without implying a specific solution. Where the pain point is systemic, generate an HMW that addresses the root cause — not just the surface symptom. Group by theme and flag the 3 highest-leverage opportunities.

Copilot

Convert these pain points [paste] into How Might We statements formatted for a workshop facilitation deck. Group by theme. Present each as a clear, jargon-free statement the team can discuss and vote on. Include a brief facilitator note for each theme explaining why it matters. Format for a PowerPoint slide with no more than 4 statements per slide.

Before you move on

Review with the full project team before using in ideation. Cut any statement that implies a solution, and cut any that are too broad to act on. The team should be able to agree on the top three before moving forward — if they can't, the underlying pain points haven't been validated yet.

Opportunity Prioritisation

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTPain Point Synthesis (Phase 2)Miro or FigJam (to workshop it)

Why it helps

Turns a long list of pain points and opportunities into a defensible order of work. Expect each item scored against impact, effort, reach, and confidence, grouped into what to do now, next, and later — with the reasoning visible so stakeholders can argue with the logic rather than the conclusion. Useful precisely because the argument in the room is usually about criteria, not items.

What to provide

Your synthesised pain points or How Might We statements, what the business is actually trying to achieve this cycle, and any known constraints — timeline, team size, technical limitations.

Prompt example

Based on these pain points [paste] and these business goals [paste], build a prioritisation matrix. Score each item on user impact, implementation effort, how many users it reaches, and how confident we are in the evidence behind it. Group into Now, Next, and Later. Show your reasoning for each score, and flag any item where the score depends on an assumption we haven't validated.

Tip on prompting

Give it the business goals, not just the pain points. Without them it will optimise for user impact alone, which produces a list that is hard to defend in a room where someone is accountable for a number.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Pain points or opportunities: [paste] | Business goals: [paste] | Constraints: [timeline, team size, technical limits]</context> Build a prioritisation matrix. Score each item on user impact, effort, reach, and evidence confidence, and produce a table with the scores, a Now/Next/Later grouping, and a one-line rationale per item. Mark every effort score as an estimate needing engineering confirmation. Flag any item whose priority depends on an assumption we have not validated, and list those assumptions separately.

ChatGPT

You are a product designer prioritising a backlog of opportunities. Given these pain points [paste] and business goals [paste], score each on impact, effort, reach, and confidence, then sort into Now, Next, and Later. Explain your reasoning per item. Then give me the three items most likely to cause disagreement between design and business stakeholders, and how I should frame each one going into that conversation.

Gemini

Prioritise these opportunities [paste] against these business goals [paste]. Score on impact, effort, reach, and confidence, and group into Now/Next/Later. Where an item resembles a common pattern in [domain], note how comparable teams have typically sequenced it. Flag items where the effort estimate is likely to be wrong without engineering input.

Copilot

Create a prioritisation matrix from these pain points [paste] and business goals [paste], formatted for a PowerPoint slide a leadership team will review. Score each item on impact, effort, reach, and confidence. Group into Now, Next, and Later. Keep each rationale to one line, use plain business language, and add a summary slide note explaining the criteria used.

Before you move on

Run the scoring with the team rather than presenting it finished — the value is in the disagreement it surfaces. Effort scores in particular need a developer's eyes; a model guessing at implementation cost is guessing. Treat any item resting on an unvalidated assumption as unranked until you've closed that gap.

Success Metrics Definition

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTPain Point Synthesis (Phase 2)Future State Process Map Generation (Phase 2)

Why it helps

Forces the question of what 'better' actually means before anyone builds anything. Expect a small set of measurable outcomes tied to the pain points you found — with a current baseline, a target, and how each one would be instrumented. This is the artifact that makes post-launch conversations about whether the design worked possible at all.

What to provide

Your pain points, your future state process map, and any metrics the business already tracks.

Prompt example

Based on these pain points [paste] and this future state map [paste], define success metrics for this work. For each, give me what we're measuring, why it reflects a real user outcome rather than activity, the current baseline if it's knowable, a target, and how it would be captured. Flag any metric that could be gamed or that would improve without the user's experience actually improving.

Tip on prompting

Ask it to distinguish outcome metrics from activity metrics explicitly. Left alone, most models will hand you a list of things that are easy to count rather than things that mean something.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Pain points: [paste] | Future state map: [paste] | Metrics already tracked: [paste if any]</context> Define success metrics for this work. For each: the metric, the user outcome it represents, baseline, target, and instrumentation approach. Separate outcome metrics from activity metrics and label which is which. For every metric, state how it could be gamed or improve without the experience improving, and propose a counter-metric where that risk is real.

ChatGPT

You are a product designer defining success measures. Based on these pain points [paste] and this future state [paste], propose 4-6 success metrics. For each give the metric, why it matters to users, a baseline, a target, and how to instrument it. Then tell me which of these the business will care about most and which ones I'll have to argue for — and how to make that argument.

Gemini

Define success metrics for this work based on these pain points [paste] and future state map [paste]. For each: metric, user outcome, baseline, target, instrumentation. Where relevant, note what comparable teams in [domain] typically measure for this kind of workflow, and flag metrics that are commonly tracked but rarely meaningful.

Copilot

Create a success metrics document based on these pain points [paste] and this future state map [paste], formatted for a Word document shared with business stakeholders. For each metric include: what is measured, why it matters, current baseline, target, and how it will be tracked. Present as a table with a short executive summary above it. Use business language, not UX jargon.

Before you move on

Take these to whoever owns the data before you commit to them — a metric nobody can actually instrument is a wish. Check each one against the gaming question honestly: if a metric can improve while the experience gets worse, either pair it with a counter-metric or drop it.

Feedback Synthesis

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTMarker.io or BugHerd (feedback source)Jira or Notion (to track actions)

Why it helps

Turns a messy collection of stakeholder comments into an actionable prioritized list. Expect a summary that surfaces common themes, highlights conflicts between stakeholders, and flags items that require a decision before the next iteration.

What to provide

All stakeholder feedback collected from your review sessions or commenting tool.

Prompt example

Here is feedback collected from [number] stakeholders on the prototype [paste feedback]. Synthesize this into a structured summary. Identify recurring themes, surface any conflicting opinions, and flag items that require a decision before the next design iteration.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Feedback from [number] stakeholders: [paste all feedback]</context> Synthesize into a structured summary. Group into themes. For each theme: name, supporting evidence (direct quotes where possible), frequency, and whether there is stakeholder disagreement. Add a 'Decisions required' section at the end listing items that cannot be acted on until someone makes a call. Flag any feedback item that contradicts an earlier design decision.

ChatGPT

You are a UX designer synthesizing stakeholder feedback. Here is feedback from [number] stakeholders [paste]. Identify recurring themes, surface any conflicting opinions between stakeholders, and flag items that require a design decision before the next iteration. Format as: Themes (with quotes), Conflicts (who disagrees with whom and why), and Action items (prioritized list). Suggest a recommended priority order for the next sprint.

Gemini

Synthesize this stakeholder feedback [paste] into a structured report. Identify themes, conflicts between stakeholders, and items requiring a decision. For each theme, note whether the feedback reflects a genuine usability problem versus a personal preference — that distinction matters for prioritization. List actionable next steps at the end.

Copilot

Synthesize this stakeholder feedback [paste] into a structured summary formatted for a client-facing document. Group by theme. For each theme include: a plain-language description, how many stakeholders raised it, whether there was disagreement, and a recommended action. Add a one-paragraph executive summary at the top and a prioritized action table at the bottom. Format for Word.

Before you move on

Share the synthesis back with key stakeholders before acting on it. AI summarization can flatten nuance — a stakeholder who feels their concern was misrepresented will lose trust in the process. A quick confirmation step takes 10 minutes and prevents that.

Phase 3

Prototype & Test

Build from your artifacts and test close to real. AI collapses the gap between process map and working prototype — then keeps the testing loop tight so you iterate faster than you think possible.

18 methods

Before You Build

Phase 3 is a gear shift. You're no longer generating documents in a chat window — you're running a live development environment. Before you run a single prompt, get your workspace ready. The tool you use here determines how much control you have over the output.

Create your CLAUDE.md first

Before you scaffold a project or write a single prompt, create a CLAUDE.md file in your project root. Claude Code reads it automatically every session — it's your standing brief. This is where your Phase 1 and Phase 2 artifacts pay off: paste in your service blueprint, pain point synthesis, journey map, and validated future state process map. Add your personas, design constraints, and definition of done. The richer this file is, the less you re-explain across sessions — and the more accurately Claude Code builds against your actual project, not a generic interpretation of it.

Read the markdown file guide →
Bolt.new / v0

Browser-based, zero setup, good for quick throwaway UI. Loses steam fast on anything with real workflow complexity or multiple personas.

Cursor

AI-native IDE, solid middle ground. Works well if you're already comfortable working inside a code editor.

VSCode + Claude Code setup

  1. Install Node.js (LTS version)node -v
  2. Install VSCode if you don't already have it
  3. Install the Claude Code CLInpm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-code
  4. Authenticate with your Anthropic accountclaude login
  5. Scaffold a new projectnpx create-next-app@latest
  6. Open the folder in VSCode, then launch Claude Code in the terminalclaude
💡

Your first message to Claude Code is your brief. Drop in the full future state process map, name your user personas, describe the style direction, and define what a done prototype looks like — before it writes a single line of code. The more context upfront, the less cleanup later.

This is the single most powerful method in your entire guide. It takes the validated future state and turns it into something testable, which compounds the value of every phase before it. AI-Native Prototyping is worth calling out as a strong secondary—but Prototype Generation from Process Map wins because it's directly connected to the work you've already done.

Additional Methods

Design System Application

Required tools

Claude CodeCursorFigma (to reference design system)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Ensures the prototype resembles the client's actual product rather than a generic UI. Expect components — buttons, forms, navigation, cards — that reflect the client's visual language and naming conventions. Reduces the gap between prototype and production.

What to provide

The client's design system documentation, style guide, or existing product screenshots.

Prompt example

Apply [client name]'s design system to this prototype. Use their color tokens, typography scale, and component patterns where possible. Where the design system has gaps, create components that are visually consistent with the existing system.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Apply [client name]'s design system to this prototype. Here are the design tokens and component specs [paste or attach]. Replace all generic styles with the client's color tokens, typography scale, and spacing units. For any component the design system doesn't cover, create a new component that is visually consistent with the existing patterns. List every component updated and flag any that required custom styling decisions.

Kiro

Write a spec to apply [client name]'s design system to this prototype. Tokens and component specs: [paste]. The spec should define which components need updating, what token values to apply, and how to handle gaps in the design system. Generate the updated components and a summary of changes after applying.

Codex

Update this prototype to use [client name]'s design system. Apply these tokens [paste]. For each component: replace hardcoded styles with the correct token values, match interaction patterns to the design system spec, and flag any component that doesn't have a clear design system equivalent so I can make a decision.

Before you move on

Compare key components side-by-side with the client's live product. Confirm naming conventions and interaction patterns with the client's design or dev team — design systems often have undocumented rules that only surface when you get it wrong.

Local Database with SQLite

Required tools

Claude CodeCursorSQLitebetter-sqlite3 or Drizzle or PrismaNode.jsPrototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Transforms the prototype from a static click-through into a data-driven application that behaves like real software. By wiring a local SQLite database to the prototype, records persist across sessions, lists populate from actual data, and CRUD interactions work end-to-end. Stakeholders stop asking 'would this work with real data?' — they see it work.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase, a list of the key entities in the product (e.g. users, projects, tasks, submissions), and any sample or anonymized data you want seeded into the database.

Prompt example

Add a local SQLite database to this prototype using [better-sqlite3 / Drizzle / Prisma — pick one]. Define tables for the following entities: [list entities and their key fields]. Seed the database with realistic sample data. Wire the existing UI components to read from and write to the database so that create, read, update, and delete interactions persist across page reloads.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Add a local SQLite database to this prototype using better-sqlite3. Define tables for these entities: [list entities and key fields]. Seed with realistic sample data — at least 10 rows per table with varied, non-placeholder content. Wire all existing list views, forms, and detail screens to read from and write to the database. Every create, update, and delete interaction should persist across page reloads. After setup, confirm each table and its seed data.

Kiro

Write a spec to add a local SQLite database to this prototype. Entities: [list]. The spec should define the schema for each table, seed data requirements, and which UI components need to be wired to each table. Generate the database layer and updated components, running in Supervised mode so I can review the schema before data is seeded.

Codex

Add SQLite to this prototype using better-sqlite3 (or Drizzle if the project already uses it). Tables needed: [list entities and fields]. Create a db.ts file with the schema definitions. Seed each table with at least 10 realistic rows. Update the relevant components to fetch data from the database instead of using hardcoded arrays. Confirm each wired component after the update.

Before you move on

Test every CRUD interaction with edge case data — empty fields, very long strings, duplicate entries, and special characters. Have a developer review the data model before building further on top of it. Assumptions baked into the schema at this stage will be expensive to undo later.

AI-Native Prototyping

Required tools

v0.devBolt.newLovable.devFuture State Process Map (Phase 2)

Why it helps

Tools like v0, Bolt, and Lovable are purpose-built for AI-generated UIs — not code editors with AI added on. Drop in your future state map and get a working multi-page app in minutes. A better starting point than blank-canvas generation when speed and fidelity both matter.

What to provide

Your validated future state process map and any visual reference for the desired look and feel.

Prompt example

Build a [app type] based on this process map [paste map]. The app should cover these workflows: [list workflows]. Use a clean, professional UI with [color/style notes]. Make it fully navigable so stakeholders can click through every flow.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Use this process map [paste] to scaffold a full multi-page React app for [tool name]. Create one route per major workflow. Use a sidebar or top navigation to move between sections. Apply [style notes]. Prioritize working navigation over visual polish — stakeholders need to click through the full flow. List all routes created at the end.

Kiro

Write a spec for a [tool name] web app based on this process map [paste]. Define all pages, navigation structure, and key UI elements per page. Use the spec to generate a full multi-page app in Bolt.new or as a React scaffold. Workflows to cover: [list].

Codex

Using this process map [paste], build a navigable multi-page prototype for [tool name]. Create one page per major workflow. Wire navigation between pages. Use [color/style notes] for visual consistency. Keep component logic simple — the goal is a clickable prototype, not production-ready code.

Before you move on

Test every navigation path before presenting. AI-native builders can produce convincing UIs that break when you click off the happy path — find those gaps yourself before stakeholders do.

Interaction State Generation

Required tools

Claude CodeCursorPrototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Most AI-generated prototypes only show the happy path. This method forces coverage of every state a component can be in — hover, focus, disabled, error, empty, loading. Stakeholders and developers both need to see these to make informed decisions.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase or a specific component you want full state coverage for.

Prompt example

For every interactive component in this prototype, generate all possible UI states: default, hover, focus, active, disabled, loading, error, and empty. Render each state as a distinct output. Flag any states that require a UX decision I haven't made yet.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

For every interactive component in this prototype, generate all UI states: default, hover, focus, active, disabled, loading, error, and empty. Implement each as a visible, triggerable state in the component — not just a comment. Create a /states dev page that renders every component side-by-side in all states so I can review them without navigating the prototype. Flag any state that requires a design decision before it can be implemented.

Kiro

Write a spec to add full interaction state coverage to this prototype. For each interactive component define all states it needs to support: default, hover, focus, active, disabled, loading, error, empty. Generate the updated components and create a review page that displays all states in one view. Run in Supervised mode.

Codex

Audit this prototype for interaction state coverage. For every interactive component, identify which states are currently implemented and which are missing. Add the missing states — at minimum: disabled, loading, error, and empty for any data-dependent component. Create a dedicated /dev/states route that renders every component in every state for review.

Before you move on

Review each state against the design system before moving forward. States that deviate from the visual language are easy to miss in generated output — they tend to surface as visual bugs in stakeholder review.

Responsive Layout Generation

Required tools

Claude CodeCursorPrototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Expands a desktop prototype to mobile and tablet breakpoints without rebuilding from scratch. Expect layouts reordered for smaller screens with navigation patterns appropriate to the breakpoint — not just scaled-down desktop.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase and the breakpoints you need to support.

Prompt example

Generate responsive layouts for this prototype at the following breakpoints: mobile (375px), tablet (768px), and desktop (1280px). Reorder and adapt layouts as needed for smaller screens. Collapse navigation to a mobile-appropriate pattern. Ensure all core workflows remain accessible at every breakpoint.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Add responsive layouts to this prototype at three breakpoints: mobile (375px), tablet (768px), and desktop (1280px). For mobile: collapse navigation to a bottom nav or hamburger menu, stack all grid layouts vertically, increase tap target sizes to at least 44px, and ensure no horizontal overflow. For tablet: use a two-column layout where appropriate. Test every workflow at each breakpoint and list any component that required a significant structural change.

Kiro

Write a spec to make this prototype fully responsive at mobile (375px), tablet (768px), and desktop (1280px). Define layout changes needed per breakpoint and navigation patterns appropriate to each screen size. Generate updated CSS and component changes. Prioritize mobile — assume that is the primary review device for stakeholders.

Codex

Update this prototype to be fully responsive across mobile (375px), tablet (768px), and desktop (1280px). Use CSS media queries or Tailwind responsive prefixes. Key requirements: no horizontal scroll at any breakpoint, navigation collapses appropriately on small screens, all interactive elements are thumb-reachable on mobile. After updating, list all components changed and the breakpoint-specific behavior added.

Before you move on

Test every workflow on an actual device or emulator — not just the browser resize tool. Interactions that work with a mouse frequently fail on touch, and layout issues on real screens differ from what you see in a dev window.

Accessibility Audit

Required tools

Claude CodeKiroWorking prototype

Why it helps

Catches the accessibility problems that are cheapest to fix while the prototype is still a prototype — colour contrast, missing labels, keyboard traps, focus order that jumps around the screen. Expect a list of specific failures tied to specific components, not a generic WCAG summary. Running this before handoff means developers inherit an accessible pattern instead of a remediation ticket.

What to provide

Your working prototype, the conformance level you're targeting (AA is the usual answer), and any known constraints from your design system.

Prompt example

Audit this prototype for accessibility issues against WCAG 2.2 AA. Check colour contrast on text and interactive elements, missing form labels and alt text, keyboard reachability of every interactive element, visible focus states, focus order, and heading structure. For each issue give me the component, the specific failure, the criterion it breaks, and the fix. Order by severity and tell me which ones are design decisions rather than code fixes.

Tip on prompting

Ask it to separate code fixes from design decisions. Contrast failures on your brand palette are not something a model should quietly resolve on its own — those need a real decision from you or whoever owns the design system.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Audit this prototype against WCAG 2.2 AA. Cover: contrast ratios for text and UI components, form labels and accessible names, keyboard reachability and focus order, visible focus indicators, heading hierarchy, and any interactive element that isn't a real button or link. Produce a table — Component, Issue, WCAG criterion, Severity, Fix — sorted by severity. Separate issues you can fix in code from issues that need a design decision, and don't change brand colours without asking. Once I've reviewed the table, apply the code fixes only.

Kiro

Write an accessibility audit spec for this prototype targeting WCAG 2.2 AA, then work through it with me. Check contrast, labels and accessible names, keyboard operability, focus order and visibility, and heading structure. Output findings as a checklist grouped by component, with each item marked as a code fix or a design decision. Don't apply fixes until I've reviewed the list.

Codex

Review this prototype for accessibility problems against WCAG 2.2 AA. Look for insufficient colour contrast, inputs without labels, images without alt text, interactive elements that can't be reached or operated by keyboard, missing focus styles, and skipped heading levels. For each, name the file and component, describe the failure, and suggest the fix. List anything that would require changing the visual design separately so I can decide on those myself.

Before you move on

An automated pass catches roughly a third of what matters — treat this as triage, not a clean bill of health. Tab through the prototype yourself with the mouse untouched, and check the flows that carry the most weight with a screen reader before you call it done. Anything the audit flags as a design decision needs you, not the model.

Prototype Annotation for Stakeholder Review

Required tools

Claude CodeCursorPrototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Generates inline annotations that explain interactions, transitions, and non-obvious behaviors before stakeholders see the prototype. Reduces 'how does this work?' questions during walkthroughs and creates a reference artifact for the dev team.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase and the workflows you want annotated.

Prompt example

Add annotation overlays to this prototype for the following workflows: [list workflows]. For each interactive element, annotate: what triggers it, what happens when triggered, any conditional behavior, and the resulting state. Display annotations as numbered callouts that can be toggled on and off.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Add toggleable annotation overlays to this prototype for these workflows: [list]. For each interactive element add a numbered callout that explains: what triggers it, what happens on interaction, any conditional behavior, and the resulting state. Add a global 'Show annotations' toggle button in the top-right corner. Annotations should not obscure the UI when hidden. After adding, confirm every workflow in the list has at least one annotation.

Kiro

Write a spec to add annotation overlays to this prototype. Workflows to annotate: [list]. Each annotation callout should explain the trigger, behavior, and resulting state for the annotated element. The annotation layer should be toggleable without affecting the prototype layout. Generate the implementation and a list of all annotated elements.

Codex

Add a numbered annotation system to this prototype. For the following workflows [list], annotate every interactive element with a callout explaining: trigger, behavior, conditions, and resulting state. Implement as an overlay that can be toggled on/off via a button in the UI. Use a small numbered badge on each element and a sidebar panel that shows the full annotation when a badge is clicked.

Before you move on

Have a team member who wasn't involved in the build walk through the annotated prototype solo. Note every question they still ask after reading the annotations — those are your coverage gaps.

Usability Test Script

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTDeployed prototype URLMaze or UserTesting (optional for remote testing)

Why it helps

Generates structured test scenarios and tasks directly from the prototype workflows — so you're testing what the prototype actually does, not generic tasks invented separately.

What to provide

Your workflow documentation and a description of the user type being tested.

Prompt example

Using the workflows documented in this prototype, generate a usability test script for [user type]. Include a facilitator introduction, one task scenario per major workflow written from the user's perspective without giving away the solution, observation prompts for the facilitator, and post-task questions. Add a debrief section at the end.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>User type: [type] | Workflows to test: [list] | Prototype description: [paste]</context> Generate a usability test script. Include: (1) Facilitator intro script (2 min), (2) One task scenario per workflow — written from the user's perspective without revealing the solution path, (3) Observation prompts for each task (what to look for), (4) Post-task questions (1–2 per task), (5) Debrief questions. Flag any task where the prototype doesn't fully support end-to-end completion.

ChatGPT

You are a UX researcher writing a usability test script. Based on these workflows [paste] for [user type], generate a test script with: a facilitator introduction, one task scenario per workflow (written from the user's perspective without revealing the answer), observation cues, and post-task questions. Then add a section for the facilitator on what to watch for and what follow-up questions to ask when a participant gets stuck.

Gemini

Generate a usability test script for [user type] based on these workflows [paste]. Ground each task in how users in [domain] typically frame their goals — avoid UX or product language in the task wording. Include facilitator intro, task scenarios, observation prompts, post-task questions, and debrief. Flag any task scenario that might prime the participant toward the expected solution.

Copilot

Create a usability test script for [user type] based on these workflows [paste]. Format as a Word document the facilitator can print and use in a moderated session. Include: script sections with clear labels, task scenarios in speech-bubble format (as if being read aloud), space for notes after each task, and a post-session debrief section. Keep language natural and conversational — this will be read aloud.

Before you move on

Pilot the script with a colleague before running real sessions. Check that task scenarios don't reveal the solution path and that the prototype supports each task end-to-end. A script that hasn't been piloted will surface problems mid-session with a real participant.

Usability Test Synthesis

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTUsability Test Script (Phase 3)Session notes or transcripts

Why it helps

Turns a pile of session notes and transcripts into findings you can act on. Expect issues grouped by severity and by where they occurred in the flow, with the number of participants who hit each one, supporting quotes, and a separation between what people struggled with and what they merely disliked. This is the other half of the testing loop — writing the script is the easy part.

What to provide

Your session notes or transcripts, the task list you tested against, and how many participants you ran.

Prompt example

Here are the notes from [number] usability sessions testing [prototype or flow] [paste]. Identify the issues participants encountered, grouped by task. For each, note how many participants hit it, how severe it was, whether they recovered on their own, and include a representative quote. Separate genuine usability failures from stated preferences, and flag anything only one participant raised so I can decide whether it's signal or noise.

Tip on prompting

Tell it how many participants you ran. Without that number it will describe patterns without weighting them, and 'several participants struggled' reads very differently when you only ran five.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Session notes: [paste] | Tasks tested: [list] | Participants: [number]</context> Synthesise these usability sessions. Produce: (1) a findings table with columns for Issue, Task, Participants affected, Severity, and Recovered unaided; (2) supporting quotes for each finding; (3) a separate list distinguishing usability failures from stated preferences; (4) anything raised by only one participant, flagged as unconfirmed. Do not inflate a single observation into a pattern — say when the evidence is thin.

ChatGPT

You are a UX researcher synthesising usability test results. Here are notes from [number] sessions [paste] testing these tasks [list]. Identify what went wrong, group by task, and rate severity. Include quotes. Then give me the three findings I should take to the team first and explain why those three. Call out anywhere the evidence is too thin to justify a design change.

Gemini

Synthesise these usability session notes [paste] from [number] participants testing [tasks]. Group findings by task and severity, note how many participants hit each issue, and include supporting quotes. Where a finding matches a known usability pattern or heuristic, name it. Flag observations that came from a single participant separately from confirmed patterns.

Copilot

Synthesise these usability test notes [paste] into a findings report formatted for a Word document a client will read. Include an executive summary, a findings table (Issue, Task, Participants affected, Severity, Recommendation), supporting quotes, and prioritised next steps. Use plain language and avoid UX jargon — this will be read by non-designers.

Before you move on

Check the severity ratings against what you actually watched — a model reading notes cannot see the ten seconds of hesitation before someone clicked, and that hesitation is often the finding. Go back to the raw notes for anything surprising before it goes in front of stakeholders, and be suspicious of any theme that sounds tidier than the sessions felt.

Feature Inventory

⚡ MCP

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTClaude CodePrototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Gives you a complete audit of everything the prototype covers before you start scoping MVPs. Expect a structured list of all features, workflows, and functionality organized by module or user type. Use it as the basis for MVP prioritization conversations.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase or a working prototype URL.

Prompt example

Analyze this prototype and document all features and workflows available. For each feature, describe what it does, which user type it serves, and which workflow it belongs to. Output as a structured list organized by section or module.

GitHub MCP — reads your codebase directly from the repository. No need to paste or export files before running the inventory.

Using the GitHub MCP, read the repository at [repo URL]. Analyze the full codebase and generate a complete feature inventory. For each feature list: what it does, which user type it serves, and which file it lives in. Organize by module or section.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Analyze this codebase and generate a complete feature inventory. For each feature document: feature name, what it does in plain language, which user type it serves, which workflow it belongs to, and the primary file(s) it lives in. Organize by section or module. At the end, flag any features that appear partially implemented or that lack a clear user-facing purpose.

Kiro

Read this codebase and generate a feature inventory. For each feature: name, plain-language description, user type served, workflow it belongs to, and file location. Organize by module. Flag incomplete or stub features. Format the output as a markdown table I can copy into Confluence.

Codex

Audit this codebase and produce a feature inventory. List every user-facing feature with: what it does, which role uses it, and where it lives in the code. Organize by section. Flag any feature that appears to be placeholder or not yet wired to real functionality.

Before you move on

Review with the PO and a developer before using for scoping. Features may be named or scoped differently than how they appear in the UI — get alignment on the language before the prioritization conversation starts.

Feature Dialing for MVP Scoping

Required tools

Claude CodeCursorFeature Inventory (Phase 3)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Lets you quickly model what the experience looks like at different delivery phases without rebuilding from scratch. Expect a modified prototype with specified features removed or simplified. Use it to show stakeholders what Phase 1 vs Phase 2 actually feels like.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase and a list of features to remove or simplify.

Prompt example

Remove the following features from the prototype: [list features]. Show me what the experience looks like without them, ensuring remaining workflows still function end-to-end. Flag any dependencies or broken flows that result from the removal.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Remove the following features from this prototype: [list]. Ensure all remaining workflows still function end-to-end after removal — no broken navigation, missing components, or dead-end screens. Before removing, list any dependencies these features have on components or routes shared with features that are staying. After removal, do a full workflow walkthrough and confirm nothing is broken.

Kiro

Write a spec to create an MVP-scoped version of this prototype. Features to remove for Phase 1: [list]. Features to keep: [list]. The spec should identify any dependencies between removed and retained features before making changes. Generate the updated prototype and confirm end-to-end workflows still function.

Codex

Scope this prototype down to the MVP feature set by removing: [list features]. Before removing, flag any shared components or routes that other features depend on. After removal, verify that remaining workflows are navigable end-to-end. Create a summary of what was removed and confirm what Phase 1 now covers.

Before you move on

Walk the scoped-down prototype through a stakeholder who wasn't in the scoping conversation. Check that the remaining workflows still tell a coherent story end-to-end — a feature list that looks logical on paper often reveals broken experiences when you actually click through it.

Changelog Generation Between Iterations

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTGitGitHub or GitLab (for diff access)

Why it helps

Keeps stakeholders informed of what changed between reviews without requiring them to diff the prototype themselves. Expect a plain-language summary of what was added, removed, or modified — organized by workflow or feature area.

What to provide

Access to both versions of the prototype or a Git diff between versions.

Prompt example

Compare version 1 and version 2 of this prototype. Summarize what changed in plain language — what was added, what was removed, and what was modified. Organize the summary by workflow so stakeholders can quickly find what's relevant to them.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Run a git diff between [branch/tag v1] and [branch/tag v2]. Summarize the changes in plain language organized by workflow or feature area. Format as: Added, Removed, Modified. Exclude dependency updates, config changes, and any diff under 5 lines that represents a style tweak. Focus on changes a stakeholder or PO would care about.

Kiro

Generate a changelog by comparing this git diff [paste diff]. Summarize in plain language what was added, removed, and modified. Group by workflow or feature area. Write it for a non-technical stakeholder — avoid file names and technical jargon. Output as a formatted markdown changelog ready to paste into a Confluence page.

Codex

Analyze this git diff [paste diff] and generate a stakeholder-facing changelog. Group changes by workflow. Use plain language — no file names, no code references. Format as: ✅ Added, 🔄 Modified, ❌ Removed. Include a one-sentence summary at the top describing the overall focus of this iteration.

Before you move on

Have a team member who worked on the iteration review the changelog before it goes to stakeholders. AI will capture structural changes but can miss subtle behavioral changes or intent shifts that only someone close to the work would catch.

User Flow Diagrams

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTMermaidFigma or Miro (to present)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Translates the prototype's navigation into a path-based visual showing exactly how users move through the application. Expect a diagram per user type showing entry points, decision forks, and exit points.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase and the user type you're mapping.

Prompt example

Using this prototype, generate a user flow diagram for [user type]. Show every screen they can reach, every decision point they encounter, and every possible exit or dead end. Format it as a directional flow with labeled transitions between screens.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>User type: [type] | Prototype description or codebase summary: [paste]</context> Generate a user flow diagram as Mermaid syntax for [user type]. Show every screen reachable, every decision point encountered, and every exit or dead end. After the diagram, list any path where the user gets stuck with no clear next step — those are design gaps.

ChatGPT

You are a UX designer documenting user flows. Based on this prototype description [paste], generate a user flow diagram for [user type]. Show the complete path from entry to exit, including all decision forks and alternative routes. Write the diagram in Mermaid syntax. Then identify the 3 most critical decision points and explain what the UX implication is if the user makes the wrong choice at each.

Gemini

Generate a user flow diagram in Mermaid syntax for [user type] based on this prototype [paste description]. Map every screen reachable by this user type, every decision they face, and every exit point. After the diagram, evaluate whether the flow reflects best practices for [domain] type applications — note any steps where the flow could be simplified based on industry standards.

Copilot

Based on this prototype description [paste], generate a user flow diagram for [user type]. Format as a numbered step list with decision branches clearly indented. Label each decision with Yes/No or the specific option chosen. Include a summary table below the flow listing: Total steps, Number of decision points, Number of dead ends. Format for a PowerPoint presentation.

Before you move on

Click through every path in the live prototype and confirm it matches the diagram. Flag dead ends or missing states — flows that exist in the diagram but not in the prototype will be built by developers who trust the diagram over the working product.

State Transition Diagrams

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTMermaidFigma or Miro (to present)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Surfaces every state a screen or component can be in and what triggers each change — information baked into the prototype logic but invisible to stakeholders. Critical for QA and acceptance criteria writing.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase and the specific component or screen you want mapped.

Prompt example

For the [component or screen name] in this prototype, generate a state transition diagram. List every possible state it can be in, what triggers the transition from one state to another, and any conditions that must be true for the transition to occur.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Component or screen: [name] | Prototype logic description: [paste relevant code or description]</context> Generate a state transition diagram in Mermaid stateDiagram-v2 syntax. Show every possible state, every transition trigger, and every condition that must be true for the transition to occur. After the diagram, flag any transition where the trigger is ambiguous — those are the conditions most likely to be implemented incorrectly by a developer reading the spec.

ChatGPT

You are a UX designer documenting component behavior for a developer handoff. Based on this component description [paste], generate a state transition diagram for [component or screen name]. List every state it can be in, what triggers each state change, and any conditions required. Write in Mermaid stateDiagram-v2 syntax. Then list the 3 transitions most likely to be misunderstood and clarify each.

Gemini

Generate a state transition diagram for [component or screen name] based on this description [paste]. Use Mermaid stateDiagram-v2 syntax. Map every reachable state, every transition trigger, and every conditional guard. After the diagram, evaluate whether the state model reflects how [this type of component] typically behaves in production — flag any state that appears to be missing based on standard UX patterns.

Copilot

Create a state transition table for [component or screen name] based on this description [paste]. Format as a Word table with columns: Current State, Trigger/Event, Condition (if any), Resulting State. Include every possible state and transition. Add a brief summary above the table describing the component in one sentence for context. Format for sharing with a QA team.

Before you move on

Manually trigger every state in the live prototype and confirm it matches the diagram. Have a developer review transition conditions before handoff — missing or incorrect conditions become bugs that are expensive to fix after the build starts.

Information Architecture

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTFigma or Miro (to visualize)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Shows how content and data is grouped, labeled, and structured across the application. Useful for spotting inconsistent labeling and starting a content strategy conversation.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase.

Prompt example

Analyze the UI copy and data structures in this prototype and generate an information architecture map. Show how content is grouped, how sections and categories are labeled, and how data entities relate to each other. Flag any inconsistencies in naming or grouping across screens.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Prototype screens and UI copy: [paste or describe]</context> Generate an information architecture map. Show how content is grouped, how sections and categories are labeled, and how data entities relate to each other. Present as an indented hierarchy. Flag any inconsistencies in naming across screens — same concept labeled differently in different places. Note any grouping that contradicts typical user mental models for [domain].

ChatGPT

You are an information architect auditing a product prototype. Based on this prototype description [paste], generate an IA map showing how all content is grouped, labeled, and structured. Use an indented hierarchy format. Then identify: (1) any label inconsistencies across screens, (2) any grouping that seems counterintuitive for the target user, and (3) any content that appears orphaned or hard to discover.

Gemini

Analyze this prototype [paste description] and generate an information architecture map. Show the content hierarchy, section labels, and how data entities relate. Ground your evaluation in how [domain] products typically organize information — flag any structural decision that deviates from established patterns and explain the risk it creates for discoverability.

Copilot

Based on this prototype description [paste], create an information architecture document formatted for a client review. Use an indented list showing all sections, categories, and content types. Add a second table flagging label inconsistencies found across screens. Keep language free of technical jargon. Format for Word with clear headings for each section.

Before you move on

Review label consistency with the client's content or product team. Check that groupings match user mental models surfaced in research — IA that makes sense to the designer often doesn't match how users actually think about the content.

Preview URL Deployment

Required tools

Vercel or NetlifyGitHub or GitLabGitPrototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Gives stakeholders a live interactive prototype they can click through on any device. Tools like Vercel or Netlify auto-deploy on every code push so each iteration gets its own shareable URL.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase in a Git repository.

Prompt example

Deploy this prototype to a public preview URL using Vercel. Configure it so every new push to the main branch creates an updated preview. Output the shareable URL when complete.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Connect this repository to Vercel and configure it for automatic deployment on every push to main. Set the build command to [npm run build or equivalent] and the output directory to [dist or build]. Once deployed, output the production URL. If there is a base path configured in vite.config.ts or equivalent, confirm it is set to '/' for Vercel compatibility.

Kiro

Write a deployment spec for pushing this prototype to Vercel. Steps: connect the GitHub repo, configure build settings (build command, output directory), enable automatic deploys on push to main, and confirm the public URL. Run in Supervised mode and confirm the live URL at the end.

Codex

Set up Vercel deployment for this prototype. Configure the project with the correct build command and output directory. Add a vercel.json if needed for routing (for SPAs, include a rewrite rule that catches all routes). Confirm auto-deploy is enabled on main. Output the live URL when done.

Before you move on

Test the deployed URL on multiple devices and browsers before sharing with stakeholders. Confirm all workflows are functional in the deployed environment — issues that don't appear locally will appear in review at the worst possible time.

Inline Stakeholder Commenting

Required tools

Claude CodeKiroDeployed prototype URLMarker.io or BugHerd (if you'd rather not build it)

Why it helps

Lets stakeholders leave feedback directly on the live prototype by pointing at the section they mean, instead of describing it from memory in a meeting three days later. Expect a floating feedback button, a select mode that names each section as they hover it, and a stored record of what that section actually looked like at the moment they commented. Off-the-shelf tools like Marker.io or BugHerd do this with a screenshot; building it yourself lets you capture the section's rendered state — which matters once your prototype runs on live or generated data and the numbers move between the comment and your reading of it.

What to provide

Your deployed prototype, a decision on where feedback should be stored, and the category list you want reviewers to sort their comments into.

Prompt example

Add an in-app feedback tool to this prototype. Requirements: a floating feedback button on every page; a select mode where hovering outlines a section and shows its name, and clicking attaches it to the comment; capture the section's rendered markup at the moment of selection, plus viewport width and the current build; store each submission with a category and the reviewer's name; and add a log view that replays each stored snapshot at the width it was captured. Resolve a click to the nearest named section rather than the exact element clicked.

Tip on prompting

If your sections already use semantic markup with real headings, most of them will name themselves with no extra work. Audit before you start annotating — it's usually a handful of components doing the naming badly, not the whole app.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Build an in-app feedback tool for this prototype. (1) A floating feedback button on every page opening a compose panel with a comment field, a category selector, and the reviewer's name. (2) An 'attach a section' select mode: hovering outlines the section under the cursor and shows its name; clicking attaches it. Resolve the click to the nearest meaningful section — walk up from the clicked element until you find one with an explicit label or its own heading, and stop before you reach something the size of the whole page. (3) On selection, capture that section's rendered markup, its width, and the current build identifier. (4) Store submissions somewhere I own rather than a third-party service — propose two options before building. (5) Add a log view, kept out of the main navigation, that replays each snapshot at its captured width. Tell me which sections in this app already name themselves and which ones need an explicit label before you start.

Kiro

Write a spec for an in-app feedback tool for this prototype, then build it once I approve. The spec should cover: a floating feedback button; a section select mode with hover outlining and a visible section name; resolving a click to the nearest named section rather than the raw element; capturing the section's rendered state, viewport width, and build ID at selection time; a storage approach that doesn't depend on a third-party service; and a log view that replays snapshots at the width they were captured. Call out the parts most likely to go wrong and how you plan to handle them before writing any code.

Codex

Add a feedback widget to this prototype. It needs a floating button on every page, a mode where clicking a section attaches it to the comment, and storage for each submission including the comment, the section name, the viewport width, and what the section looked like when it was selected. When resolving the click, use the nearest containing section that has a heading or an explicit label — not the exact element the user clicked. Add a separate page that lists the submissions and replays each captured section.

Before you move on

Brief stakeholders on how to use it before the review session and set a clear deadline — unguided reviewers leave vague comments, and a five-minute walkthrough dramatically improves feedback quality. Then test the capture yourself on a chart or data-heavy section before the session: the two failure modes worth catching early are a click resolving to something meaningless rather than the section that contains it, and a hover tooltip getting baked into the stored snapshot.

Phase 4

Handoff

Package the validated prototype into everything the development team needs to build with confidence. Use AI to generate specs, documentation, and structured artifacts directly from the prototype — not from memory.

18 methods

Workflow & Requirements Documentation is what makes the handoff actually land with developers. It reads directly from the prototype codebase — so what the dev team receives reflects what was actually built, not what you intended to build.

Additional Methods

Handoff Readiness Audit

Required tools

ClaudeClaude CodePrototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Checks what's actually missing before you hand off — not after a developer asks for it. Surfaces gaps across specs, states, flows, copy, and data before the build starts.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase and a list of the handoff artifacts you've produced so far.

Prompt example

Audit this prototype for handoff readiness. Check for: screens or states that appear in the UI but aren't covered in the documentation, components with undefined behaviors or missing states, data fields without validation rules, copy that's inconsistent or placeholder, and user flows with no defined error path. Output as a prioritized gap list.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Audit this codebase for handoff readiness. Check for: (1) screens or states in the UI with no corresponding documentation, (2) components with missing interaction states (loading, error, empty), (3) data fields with no validation rules, (4) placeholder or inconsistent UI copy, (5) user flows with no defined error path. Output as a prioritized gap list. Mark each gap as High / Medium / Low based on how likely it is to block a developer.

Kiro

Audit this prototype for dev handoff readiness. Review the codebase for: undocumented screens, missing component states, undefined validation rules, placeholder copy, and flows without error handling. Output a prioritized gap list with severity ratings. Run in Supervised mode so I can see each file reviewed.

Codex

Perform a handoff readiness audit on this prototype. Scan for: missing interaction states, undefined data validation, placeholder text, undocumented decision logic, and user flows with no error handling. Output a gap list organized by category. Flag the top 5 gaps most likely to result in developer questions on day one of the build.

Before you move on

Review the gap list with the lead developer before signing off. Gaps that seem minor from a design perspective are often the first questions developers ask — what's obvious to you after months on the project is not obvious to someone reading the spec for the first time.

Jira Story Acceptance Criteria Generation

⚡ MCP

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTJiraWorkflow & Requirements Documentation (Phase 4)

Why it helps

Eliminates the manual work of writing acceptance criteria from scratch. Expect Jira-ready story descriptions with Given/When/Then criteria for each workflow step — grounded in actual prototype behavior, not assumptions.

What to provide

Your workflow documentation and the user roles in the system.

Prompt example

Using the workflows in this prototype, generate Jira story acceptance criteria for each workflow. Format each as: story title, user story statement (As a [user] I want to [action] so that [outcome]), and acceptance criteria in Given/When/Then format.

Jira MCP — writes acceptance criteria directly into Jira stories. No copy-pasting into tickets.

Using the Jira MCP, read the stories in [project key]. For each story, generate Given/When/Then acceptance criteria based on the corresponding workflow in this prototype. Write the criteria directly to each story's description field.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Workflows: [paste documentation] | User roles: [list]</context> Generate Jira-ready acceptance criteria for each workflow. Format each story as: Story title, User story (As a [role] I want to [action] so that [outcome]), and acceptance criteria in Given/When/Then format. After generating, flag any criterion that is not testable as written — those need to be rewritten before a developer can act on them.

ChatGPT

You are a product owner writing Jira acceptance criteria. Based on this workflow documentation [paste] and these roles [list], generate a Jira story for each major workflow. Format: story title, user story statement (As a/I want/So that), and 3–5 Given/When/Then acceptance criteria. After each story, add a 'Definition of Done' checklist specific to that workflow.

Gemini

Generate Jira stories with acceptance criteria for each workflow in this documentation [paste]. For each story: title, user story, and Given/When/Then criteria. Ensure each criterion is verifiable against a specific, observable outcome — not a general behavior. Flag any criterion that references a system capability not clearly demonstrated in the prototype.

Copilot

Create Jira-ready user stories with acceptance criteria for each workflow [paste documentation]. Format as a Word table with columns: Story Title, User Story (As/Want/So That), Acceptance Criteria (Given/When/Then), Priority (High/Medium/Low). Use plain language suitable for a mixed technical and non-technical team. Format for copy-paste into Jira or Azure DevOps.

Before you move on

Review each story with the PO before adding to the backlog. Have a developer confirm that the Given/When/Then criteria are testable as written — acceptance criteria that can't be tested against a specific condition aren't acceptance criteria, they're descriptions.

Component Inventory

Required tools

ClaudeClaude CodeFigma (to cross-reference)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Gives developers and designers a complete map of what UI components exist, their variants, and their behavior. Expect a structured list of component names, props, states, and which screens they appear on.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase.

Prompt example

Generate a component inventory for this prototype. For each component list: the component name, all props and their types, all possible states, and the screens or workflows it appears in.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Generate a component inventory for this codebase. For each component: component name, all props with their TypeScript types, all possible states, and the screens or workflows where it appears. Format as a markdown table. Flag any component that is used in more than 3 places but has no documented shared prop interface — those are candidates for a design system extraction.

Kiro

Read this codebase and generate a component inventory. For each component: name, props (with types), states, and screens where it appears. Format as a structured markdown table ready for Confluence. Flag any component that appears to be duplicated with slight variations — those should be consolidated before handoff.

Codex

Audit this codebase and produce a component inventory. List every React component with: its name, props and TypeScript types, all UI states it can render, and which screens it appears on. Output as a markdown table. Highlight any component that lacks prop types or uses 'any' — those need to be defined before dev handoff.

Before you move on

Cross-reference the inventory against the prototype codebase with a developer. Have them confirm prop types and state names before treating this as a source of truth — AI-generated component names may not match the actual implementation.

Accessibility Annotations

Required tools

Claude CodeKiroAccessibility Audit (Phase 3)Working prototype

Why it helps

Produces the accessibility spec developers need but rarely get — reading order, focus management, accessible names, landmark structure, and what screen readers should announce when state changes. Expect it per screen and per component, generated from the prototype rather than written from memory. Without this, accessibility becomes a remediation ticket after launch, which is the most expensive version of it.

What to provide

Your working prototype, the results of your accessibility audit, and the conformance level you're targeting.

Prompt example

Generate accessibility annotations for this prototype for developer handoff. For each screen: landmark structure, heading hierarchy, and reading order. For each interactive component: its accessible name, role, keyboard behaviour, focus handling, and what should be announced when its state changes. Note anywhere the current markup would need to change to support this.

Tip on prompting

Ask for it per component rather than per screen where you can. Developers build components, and an annotation attached to a component gets reused everywhere that component appears.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Generate accessibility annotations for this prototype for developer handoff, targeting WCAG 2.2 AA. Per screen: landmark regions, heading hierarchy, and intended reading order. Per interactive component: accessible name, role, keyboard interaction, focus behaviour including where focus moves on open and close, and live-region announcements for state changes. Output as markdown grouped by component, with a screen-level section above it. Flag every place the current markup would need to change to support the annotation.

Kiro

Write an accessibility annotation spec for this prototype targeting WCAG 2.2 AA, for developer handoff. Cover landmarks, heading structure and reading order per screen, and accessible name, role, keyboard behaviour, focus management, and state announcements per component. Output as a structured document a developer can work from directly, and list any markup changes required to support it.

Codex

Produce accessibility annotations for this prototype for handoff. For each screen give landmark structure, heading order, and reading order. For each interactive component give the accessible name, role, keyboard behaviour, focus handling, and what should be announced on state change. Format as markdown grouped by component and note where the existing markup doesn't yet support the annotation.

Before you move on

Walk the annotations through a developer before handoff — the dynamic parts, especially what gets announced when content updates, are where the intent gets lost in translation. If your team has access to anyone who uses a screen reader daily, that review is worth more than everything else on this list.

Design Token Extraction

⚡ MCP

Required tools

ClaudeClaude CodeFigma (to import tokens)Style Dictionary (optional)

Why it helps

Captures the visual language of the prototype in a format developers can immediately apply. Expect a structured list of color values, typography scales, spacing units, and border radii — ready to use as CSS variables.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase.

Prompt example

Extract all design tokens used in this prototype. Include: color palette with hex values and usage context, typography scale with font families/sizes/weights, spacing scale, border radii, and shadow styles. Format as CSS custom properties.

Figma MCP — reads variables and styles directly from your Figma file. More accurate than extracting tokens from code.

Using the Figma MCP, read the design tokens and variables from [Figma file URL]. Extract all color, typography, spacing, and border-radius tokens. Format as CSS custom properties ready for the dev handoff.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Extract all design tokens from this codebase. Include: color palette (hex values + usage context), typography scale (font families, sizes, weights, line heights), spacing scale, border radii, and shadow styles. Format as CSS custom properties in a tokens.css file. Flag any value that appears more than once but is not yet tokenized — those are inconsistencies to resolve before handoff.

Kiro

Extract design tokens from this codebase. Output: color palette with hex values, typography scale, spacing scale, border radii, and shadows. Format as CSS custom properties in a separate tokens.css file. Flag any hardcoded values that should be tokenized but aren't. Run in Supervised mode so I can approve the token naming convention before the file is written.

Codex

Generate a design token file from this codebase. Scan all CSS, Tailwind config, and inline styles. Extract all color values, font sizes, spacing values, border radii, and shadows. Output as CSS custom properties in /src/tokens.css. Use a consistent naming convention (--color-{name}, --font-size-{size}, --space-{n}). List any value that appears hardcoded in more than one place but isn't yet extracted.

Before you move on

Test extracted tokens in a real development environment before finalizing. Confirm naming conventions with the dev team — if a token naming system already exists in the client's codebase, new tokens need to follow the same pattern or they'll create a parallel system no one maintains.

Sitemap Generation

Required tools

ClaudeClaude CodeFigma or Miro (to visualize)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Produces a structural map of the entire application — every page, section, and nested route. Useful for dev planning and stakeholder alignment on scope.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase.

Prompt example

Generate a complete sitemap for this prototype. Show every page and screen organized hierarchically by section. For each page note the route path, primary user type who accesses it, and how it connects to other pages in the navigation flow.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Generate a complete sitemap for this prototype by reading the router configuration and page components. For each page: route path, page title, primary user type, and how it connects to other pages. Format as a hierarchical markdown list. Flag any route that is defined in the router but has no corresponding page component — those are skeleton routes that need to be filled before handoff.

Kiro

Read this codebase and generate a sitemap. For each page: route path, page name, user type, and parent/child relationships. Format as an indented hierarchy in markdown. Flag incomplete or stub routes. Output ready to paste into a Confluence or Notion page.

Codex

Analyze the router configuration in this prototype and generate a sitemap. List every route with: path, page name, primary user type, and navigation connections. Format as an indented hierarchy. Flag any routes without a corresponding component or with placeholder content. Also list any navigation links in the UI that don't have a corresponding route definition.

Before you move on

Review with the PO and a developer. Confirm that route paths match the intended URL structure before dev begins — route naming decisions made in a prototype are easy to change, route naming decisions made after a build has started are not.

Workflow Extraction with Step-by-Step Screenshots

Required tools

Claude CodePlaywright or Puppeteer (for screenshots)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Creates a visual artifact library for stakeholder reviews, developer reference, and documentation — without requiring anyone to navigate the prototype. Expect a folder of PNGs or SVGs per screen state organized by workflow.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase.

Prompt example

Identify all user workflows in this prototype. For each workflow, list every step in sequence. Then generate a PNG representing the screen state at each step and save them to a folder organized by workflow name. Label each file with the workflow name and step number.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Set up a Playwright script that identifies all user workflows in this prototype, navigates through each step, and captures a full-page screenshot at each state. Save screenshots to /screenshots/{workflow-name}/{step-number}-{step-label}.png. List all identified workflows before running the script so I can confirm coverage.

Kiro

Write a spec to extract step-by-step screenshots from this prototype using Playwright. The script should: identify all major workflows, navigate each step in sequence, capture a screenshot at each state, and save to a folder organized by workflow name. Generate the Playwright script and run it. Output the file list when complete.

Codex

Create a Playwright screenshot script for this prototype. The script should walk through every major workflow step by step, take a full-page screenshot at each state, and save to /screenshots/{workflow}/{step-number}-{description}.png. First list all workflows it will cover, then run the script. Confirm the output file count after completion.

Before you move on

Spot-check the generated screenshots against the live prototype. Confirm step labels accurately describe what's happening on screen before sharing with stakeholders or developers — mislabeled steps create confusion at handoff.

SVG Screen Export for Figma

Required tools

Claude CodeFigma (to import SVGs)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Generates standalone SVG files per screen that can be dragged directly into Figma as editable frames — preserving layers so elements remain adjustable. Bridges the gap between a working prototype and a Figma-based design handoff without manual recreation.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase and the list of screen states you need exported.

Prompt example

Generate a standalone SVG file for each unique screen state in this prototype. Each SVG should be 1440x900 with clearly named layers for header, navigation, content, and actions. Organize the output files by workflow name.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Generate a standalone SVG export for each unique screen in this prototype. Each SVG should be 1440x900. Structure layers as named groups: header, navigation, content, actions. Save to /exports/svgs/{screen-name}.svg. After generating, list all exported files and flag any screen where layer grouping was ambiguous.

Kiro

Write a spec to export each screen of this prototype as a standalone SVG file for import into Figma. Requirements: 1440x900 dimensions, named layer groups (header, navigation, content, actions), organized by workflow. Generate the export script and run it. Confirm the output file list.

Codex

Create an SVG export script for this prototype. For each unique screen state, render a 1440x900 SVG with named layer groups for header, navigation, content, and actions. Save to /exports/svgs/. Name each file to match the screen it represents. List all generated files after the export completes.

Before you move on

Open each SVG in Figma and verify that layers are named correctly and elements are editable before distributing to the design team. Broken or collapsed layers will slow down anyone working from these files.

Workflow Map for Figma

Required tools

Claude CodeClaudeFigma (to import)Mermaid (optional for diagram syntax)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Produces a flow diagram showing how all screens connect — which screen leads to which, where decision points occur, and how branches resolve. Exported as an SVG it becomes your workflow backbone inside Figma.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase or workflow documentation.

Prompt example

Generate a flow diagram showing how all screens in this prototype connect. Show the sequence of screens per workflow, all decision points and branches, and where flows converge or end. Export as an SVG formatted for import into Figma.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Analyze the routing and navigation logic in this prototype and generate a workflow map as a Mermaid diagram. Show every screen as a node, every navigation link as a directed edge, and every decision point as a labeled branch. After the diagram, list any screens that are reachable but not connected from the main navigation — those are dead ends that need design decisions.

Kiro

Read this prototype codebase and generate a Mermaid flow diagram showing how all screens connect. Include: all screens as nodes, navigation links as directed edges, and decision points as labeled branches. Export as both Mermaid syntax (for version control) and as a rendered SVG (for Figma import).

Codex

Generate a workflow map for this prototype by analyzing the router and navigation components. Output as a Mermaid flowchart showing all screens, connections, and decision branches. Then render it as an SVG file at /exports/workflow-map.svg for import into Figma. Flag any disconnected screens or dead-end flows.

Before you move on

Walk the map against the actual prototype screen by screen. Confirm every connection and decision point is accurate before using it as documentation — a flow diagram with missing branches will be treated as a spec and lead to incomplete builds.

Permission / Role Matrix

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTConfluence or Notion (to document)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Documents who can see and do what across every screen — especially critical for multi-role tools. This logic is almost always implicit in the prototype but never written down. Extracting it prevents costly misunderstandings during the dev build.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase and a list of the user roles in the system.

Prompt example

Analyze this prototype and generate a permission matrix for all user roles: [list roles]. For each screen and key action, document which roles can view it, which can interact with it, and which are restricted. Flag any screens or actions where permissions are ambiguous or inconsistent.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Roles: [list] | Prototype screens and actions: [paste description]</context> Generate a permission matrix as a table. Rows: screens and key actions. Columns: one per role. Cells: View / Interact / Restricted / Conditional (with condition noted). After the table, flag every cell marked Conditional — those are the permissions most likely to cause dev misunderstanding if not explicitly defined.

ChatGPT

You are a UX designer documenting permissions for a multi-role application. Based on this prototype [paste description], generate a permission matrix for these roles: [list]. Format as a table with screens/actions as rows and roles as columns. Mark each cell as: Full Access, Read Only, Restricted, or Conditional. After the table, list every ambiguous permission and propose a resolution for each.

Gemini

Generate a permission matrix for this prototype [paste description] covering these roles: [list]. Format as a table. For any permission marked Conditional, explain the condition in plain language. After the table, evaluate whether the permission model reflects standard security patterns for [domain] type applications — flag any permissions that appear unusually broad or restrictive compared to industry norms.

Copilot

Create a permissions matrix for this prototype [paste description] covering these user roles: [list]. Format as a Word table suitable for a client presentation. Rows: each screen and key action. Columns: each role. Use simple symbols: ✓ (full access), 👁 (view only), ✗ (no access), ⚠ (conditional). Add a brief legend and a one-sentence description of each role above the table.

Before you move on

Walk through the matrix with the PO and at least one representative per role. Permission logic is often more nuanced than a prototype can show — there are frequently contextual exceptions and edge cases that only surface in conversation with the people the rules apply to.

Notification & Alert Inventory

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTPrototype codebase (Phase 3)Confluence or Notion (to document)

Why it helps

Catalogs every system notification, status update, email trigger, and in-app alert built into the prototype. One of the most commonly missed artifacts at handoff — developers end up reverse-engineering communication logic that was never documented.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase.

Prompt example

Catalog all notifications and alerts in this prototype. For each one document: the trigger event that causes it, who receives it, the delivery channel (in-app, email, SMS), the message content or template, and any conditions that suppress or modify it.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Prototype description or notification logic: [paste]</context> Catalog all notifications and alerts. For each produce: notification name, trigger event, recipient(s), delivery channel (in-app / email / SMS), message content or template, and any conditions that suppress or modify it. Format as a table. Flag any notification where the trigger, timing, or recipient is not explicitly defined — those are gaps that will become developer assumptions.

ChatGPT

You are a UX designer creating a notification inventory for developer handoff. Based on this prototype description [paste], catalog every notification, alert, status update, and email trigger. For each document: trigger, recipient, channel, content, and suppression conditions. After the inventory, group notifications by workflow and identify any workflow that has no user-facing communication — those may be missing a confirmation or status update.

Gemini

Generate a notification inventory for this prototype [paste description]. For each notification: trigger, recipient, channel, content, and conditions. After the inventory, evaluate whether the notification strategy reflects best practices for [domain] — flag any pattern that is inconsistent with how this type of application typically communicates status or progress to users.

Copilot

Create a notification and alert inventory for this prototype [paste description]. Format as a Word table with columns: Notification Name, Trigger Event, Recipient, Channel (In-App/Email/SMS), Message Template, Conditions. After the table, add a brief summary paragraph describing the overall communication strategy for a stakeholder review. Use plain business language throughout.

Before you move on

Review with a developer to confirm trigger logic is technically accurate. Check with stakeholders that message content, timing, and recipient lists match business expectations — communication logic is often where the biggest gaps between design intent and build reality show up.

Business Rules Log

Required tools

ClaudeClaude CodeConfluence or Notion (to publish)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Every if/else in the prototype logic represents a decision someone made — this method makes those decisions explicit and documentable. Gives stakeholders a chance to validate decisions before dev builds on top of them.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase.

Prompt example

Review the logic in this prototype and extract every business rule as a plain-language statement. For each rule document: what triggers it, what it controls, and any exceptions or edge cases. Format as a numbered log organized by workflow or feature area.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Review this codebase and extract every business rule as a plain-language statement. For each rule document: what triggers it, what it controls, and any exceptions or edge cases. Organize by workflow or feature area. Number each rule. Flag any rule where the logic is implemented in the prototype but no business rationale is evident — those need stakeholder sign-off before dev builds on top of them.

Kiro

Read this codebase and generate a business rules log. For each conditional or logic branch: describe the rule in plain language, what triggers it, what it controls, and any exceptions. Group by workflow. Flag rules that appear to be placeholder logic rather than a deliberate business decision. Output as a numbered markdown list.

Codex

Analyze the conditional logic in this prototype and extract every business rule. Format as a numbered log organized by workflow. For each rule: plain-language description, trigger, outcome, exceptions. Flag any rule that conflicts with another rule in the same workflow — those are bugs or unresolved design decisions.

Before you move on

Review every rule with a stakeholder or PO before handoff. Business rules frequently contain exceptions that aren't visible in the prototype — and the ones that aren't caught here will be discovered by developers mid-build, which is the most expensive place to find them.

Data Dictionary

Required tools

ClaudeClaude CodeConfluence or Notion (to publish)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Captures every data field in the prototype — what it's called in the UI, what type it is, whether it's required, and what it maps to in the code. Reduces misalignment between front-end labels and back-end field names.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase.

Prompt example

Generate a data dictionary for this prototype. For every field and data element document: the UI label, the field name in the code, the data type, whether it is required or optional, any validation rules that apply, and any default values.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Generate a data dictionary for this prototype. For every field and data element: UI label (what the user sees), field name in code, data type, required/optional, validation rules, and default value. Format as a markdown table. Flag any field where the UI label differs significantly from the code variable name — those mismatches will confuse developers aligning with a back-end API.

Kiro

Read this codebase and generate a data dictionary. For each field: UI label, code variable name, type, required/optional, validation rules, default value. Format as a markdown table. Flag fields that lack validation rules — those need to be defined before the back-end team writes the API spec.

Codex

Produce a data dictionary for this prototype by scanning all form components, data models, and state definitions. For each field: UI label, variable name, type, required/optional, validation, default value. Output as a markdown table. Flag any field that appears in the UI but is not stored or transmitted anywhere — those are display-only fields that need to be clearly labeled as such in the handoff.

Before you move on

Review with a back-end developer. Field names and types in the prototype may not match what the API or database expects — mismatches here create integration bugs that are painful to trace back to a naming decision made in a design artifact.

Edge Case / Error State Catalog

Required tools

ClaudeClaude CodeJira (for QA tickets)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Surfaces every error message, empty state, and edge case built into the prototype. Doubles as a checklist for dev and QA teams.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase.

Prompt example

Catalog all edge cases and error states in this prototype. For each one document: the screen or component it appears on, the condition that triggers it, the message or UI treatment shown to the user, and the recommended next action. Include empty states, validation errors, system errors, and timeout states.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Catalog all edge cases and error states in this prototype. For each: screen/component, trigger condition, message shown to user, UI treatment, and recommended next action. Include empty states, validation errors, system errors, and timeout states. Format as a table. After the table, list any interaction in the prototype that has no corresponding error handling — those are gaps that will surface as bugs in QA.

Kiro

Read this codebase and produce an edge case and error state catalog. For each: location, trigger, user-facing message, UI treatment, next action. Include empty states, validation, system errors, and timeouts. Flag any component that handles user input but has no error state defined. Output as a markdown table.

Codex

Audit this prototype for error states and edge cases. For every component that can fail, produce a catalog entry: screen, trigger condition, error message, UI treatment, next action. Also identify components that should have error states but don't — those are QA blockers. Output as a markdown table sorted by severity.

Before you move on

QA should independently attempt to trigger each cataloged state in the prototype. Any state that can't be triggered should be flagged for clarification before handoff — an error state that exists in documentation but not in the product is a spec, not a tested behavior.

Copy Audit

Required tools

ClaudeClaude CodeGoogle Sheets or Notion (to review with team)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Extracts all UI text from the prototype in one place — labels, headings, button copy, error messages, empty states, tooltips, and placeholder text. Useful for content review, consistency checks, and localization planning.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase.

Prompt example

Extract all UI copy from this prototype and organize it by screen. For each piece of copy include: the screen it appears on, the UI element type (heading, label, button, error message, placeholder, tooltip, empty state), and the exact text. Flag any inconsistencies in tone, terminology, or formatting across screens.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Extract all UI copy from this prototype organized by screen. For each piece of copy: screen name, element type (heading / label / button / error message / placeholder / tooltip / empty state), and exact text. Format as a markdown table. After the table, flag: (1) any inconsistency in terminology for the same concept across screens, (2) any placeholder text still in the UI, (3) any copy that uses different casing or punctuation conventions inconsistently.

Kiro

Read this prototype and extract all UI copy. For each text string: screen, element type, and exact copy. Format as a table. After extraction, flag terminology inconsistencies, placeholder text, and any copy that contradicts the tone or vocabulary used elsewhere. Output as a markdown table ready for a content review session.

Codex

Generate a copy audit for this prototype by extracting every text string in the UI. Organize by screen. For each: element type and exact text. Then produce a separate consistency report flagging: different labels for the same concept, mixed casing, placeholder text, and copy that may need localization consideration. Output both as markdown tables.

Before you move on

Have the client sign off on terminology before dev locks it in. Copy that seems clear to the designer is often inconsistent with the client's internal language — and terminology that gets baked into a production build is much harder to change than terminology in a prototype.

Business Logic Documentation

Required tools

ClaudeClaude CodeConfluence or Notion (to publish)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Goes deeper than the business rules log — documents the full logic behind specific features including calculations, state management, and integration points.

What to provide

Your prototype codebase and the specific feature or workflow you want documented.

Prompt example

Document the business logic for [specific feature or workflow] in this prototype. Include: all validation rules and conditions, when elements show or hide based on state, how data flows between steps, any calculations or transformations applied, and integration points with external systems.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude Code

Document the business logic for [feature or workflow] in this prototype. Include: all validation rules and conditions, when elements show or hide based on state, how data flows between steps, any calculations or transformations applied, and integration points with external systems. Flag any logic that is implemented as a UI hack in the prototype but would require a different technical approach in production.

Kiro

Read the [feature or workflow] implementation in this codebase and generate business logic documentation. Cover: validation rules, conditional display logic, data flow, calculations, and external dependencies. Format for Confluence. Flag any prototype-specific shortcuts that won't work in production — those need a technical design decision before the build starts.

Codex

Document the business logic for [feature or workflow] in this prototype. For each logical component: describe what it does, what data it depends on, what it outputs, and any conditions that modify its behavior. Flag any logic that depends on hardcoded values, mock data, or prototype-only assumptions. Output as structured markdown ready for Confluence or Notion.

Before you move on

Have a developer read through and flag anything that would be technically difficult or impossible to implement as described. Logic that works in a prototype doesn't always translate directly to production — surface those gaps before the sprint starts, not during it.

Analytics Instrumentation Plan

Required tools

ClaudeChatGPTMixpanel or Amplitude or GA4 (implementation target)Segment (optional)Prototype codebase (Phase 3)

Why it helps

Gives your dev team a data strategy from day one by identifying what user interactions and events should be tracked and why — derived directly from the workflows in the prototype.

What to provide

Your workflow documentation and any known business goals or success metrics for the product.

Prompt example

Based on the workflows in this prototype and these business goals [paste goals], generate an analytics instrumentation plan. For each key user interaction suggest: the event name, the properties to capture, the user action that triggers it, and the business question it helps answer. Organize by workflow.

Prompt variants by tool

Claude

<context>Workflows: [paste documentation] | Business goals: [paste] | Analytics platform: [Mixpanel / Amplitude / GA4]</context> Generate an analytics instrumentation plan. For each key interaction: event name (snake_case), trigger (what the user does), properties to capture, and the business question it answers. Organize by workflow. Flag any event that could surface privacy concerns — PII captured as an event property needs a legal review before instrumentation.

ChatGPT

You are a product analyst designing an analytics tracking plan. Based on these workflows [paste] and business goals [paste], generate an instrumentation plan for [analytics platform]. For each event: name, trigger, properties to capture, and the metric or question it helps answer. Organize by workflow. After the plan, suggest a North Star metric for this product based on the workflows and goals, and list the 3 events most critical to tracking it.

Gemini

Generate an analytics instrumentation plan based on these workflows [paste] and business goals [paste]. For each key user interaction: event name, trigger, properties, and business question it answers. Ground event selection in analytics best practices — focus on behavioral signals that indicate value delivery, not just activity counts. Flag any workflow that has no trackable completion event.

Copilot

Create an analytics instrumentation plan based on these workflows [paste] and business goals [paste]. Format as a Word table with columns: Workflow, Event Name, User Trigger, Properties to Capture, Business Question Answered. Use snake_case for event names. Add a brief summary paragraph at the top explaining the tracking strategy and the primary KPIs this plan supports. Format for sharing with a development and product team.

Before you move on

Review with the PO and a developer before implementation. Confirm that proposed event names follow any existing naming conventions in the analytics platform — an instrumentation plan that introduces a new naming convention into a mature analytics setup creates a data mess that takes months to untangle.

Prompting Each Tool

How to talk to each coding tool as a UX designer — no technical background required.

The universal rule

The more you describe the experience, not the feature, the better results you'll get from all of them. You're a UX designer — that's actually your superpower here. Describe it like you would in a brief.

GitHub Copilot

speak in code comments

It responds to you writing intentions as comments inside a file. So instead of prompting it like a chat, you write your brief as comments line by line and it autocompletes the code beneath it.

Example

// Create a login form with email, password, and a "forgot password" link below the button

Not ideal if you are new to this — it requires you to already be inside a file with some structure set up before it kicks in.

ChatGPT Codex

speak like you're briefing a developer

It understands natural language well, but you'll get better output if you give it context and constraints. The key is to tell it the output format — HTML page, React component, etc. — because it'll ask or guess otherwise.

Example

I'm building a mobile app prototype. Build me a single HTML page for an onboarding screen with 3 steps. Use simple, clean design, no frameworks. The first step asks for name, second for email, third shows a confirmation message.

Claude Code

speak like you're writing a design brief

This one handles the most natural, detailed language. You can describe the whole thing upfront — Claude Code will read it, figure out the file structure, write it, and run it. You don't need to break it down technically.

Example

I'm a UX designer prototyping a mobile app. I have no backend — just need a working HTML/CSS prototype. Build me an onboarding flow: 3 screens, progress bar at the top, smooth transitions between steps, minimal modern style. Screen 1: name input. Screen 2: email input. Screen 3: success state with a checkmark animation.

Kiro

speak like you're writing a product spec

Kiro wants structure upfront because it converts your prompt into a formal spec before coding. Lean into that — bullet points and clear acceptance criteria work really well here. Think of it like writing user stories.

Example

Goal: Build an onboarding prototype for a mobile app. Users: New signups who need to enter their name and email. Screens: 3 steps with a progress indicator. Step 1: name. Step 2: email. Step 3: confirmation. Design: Clean, minimal, mobile-sized (375px wide). No backend needed. Success looks like: A working HTML file I can open in a browser.

The one prompt structure that works across all four

[Context]+[What you're building]+[Who it's for]+[What each screen or state does]+[Output format you expect]

That single prompt will get you 80% of the way with any of them. The difference is Claude Code and Kiro will do the most with it autonomously, while Copilot and Codex will need you to stay in the loop more.

Using Markdown Files as Persistent Context

Markdown files are one of the most important habits to build in AI-assisted work. Instead of re-explaining your project every session, you write it once in a .md file and the AI reads it automatically. It's the closest thing to a persistent brief.

project.md / brief.md

For tools that don't auto-read a special file, create your own and paste it into the first message of every session. One paste gives the AI everything it needs — domain, personas, constraints, and style direction — before you get into the actual task.

decisions.md

Log design decisions as you make them. When something gets validated by a stakeholder — a workflow, a naming convention, a business rule — add it here. Reference this file when you want the AI to respect what's already been agreed, rather than re-interpreting it.

.kiro/steering/*.mdKiro only

Kiro has a dedicated steering folder for persistent instructions. Drop markdown files here for tone, coding standards, persona definitions, and output preferences. This is Kiro's equivalent of CLAUDE.md — the more you invest in it upfront, the less you re-explain per session.

The general rule

Anything you find yourself re-typing at the start of a session belongs in a markdown file. Your project brief, your personas, your constraints, your definition of done — write it once, reference it every time.

LLM Guides

How to get the most out of each tool — what they're built for, how to prompt them, and where they shine in the UX process.

Anthropic

Claude

A strong all-rounder for research and writing tasks — and its coding companion Claude Code is one of the best prototype builders available.

Claude models for UX work

A quick guide to picking the right model for your design tasks

Claude Opus 5Deepest reasoning · for the genuinely hard problems

Research

Reconciling research that contradicts itselfComplex service blueprintsStrategic design frameworksSurfacing insights nobody asked the right question about

Design

Cross-role design tensionsComplex enterprise systemsDesign system rationale docsMulti-stakeholder design decisionsArchitecting full prototypes via Claude CodeDesign system token logic in Claude Code

Testing

Finding non-obvious patterns across test sessionsExplaining why users failed a task, not just that they didDetailed test analysis reports

Reach for Opus when the difficulty is in the thinking — competing variables, contradictory inputs, or a judgement call you would normally take to a senior colleague. Size of input alone is no longer the reason to upgrade.

💰 Highest cost of the three — roughly 2.5× Sonnet. Worth it when depth of reasoning changes the answer.

Claude Sonnet 5Best all-rounder · your default for UX work

Research

Interview discussion guidesPersona write-upsUser journey narrativesSynthesising a full research repoWorking across dozens of interview transcripts

Design

Writing case studiesPortfolio copy & storytellingDesign critique feedbackStakeholder presentationsAccessibility annotationsBuilding interactive prototypes via Claude CodeIterating on UI components in Claude CodeVibe coding working features end to end

Testing

Usability test scriptsScreener questionnairesSummarising session notesWriting test findings reports

Your default for almost everything. It now handles the same very large inputs Opus does, so a big pile of research is no longer a reason on its own to reach for a more expensive model.

💰 Mid-range — and cheaper than the Sonnet it replaced. The best balance of capability and value for daily UX work.

Claude Haiku 4.5Fast & lightweight · quick tasks only

Research

Quick rewrites of discussion guide questionsRapid brainstorm prompts

Design

Simple copy editsTranslating microcopyShort label rewritesQuick UI tweaks via Claude Code

Testing

Reformatting a quick observation noteSimple task instruction rewrites

Too lightweight for serious UX writing — but fine for fast, simple tasks where you just need a quick answer or light edit. It also holds noticeably less at once than Opus and Sonnet, so it is the wrong choice for dumping a research repo into.

💰 Lowest cost — ideal for high-volume or throwaway tasks where quality doesn't need to be perfect.

Research & Discovery

  • Turning messy research notes into organized, structured insights
  • Building service blueprints and journey maps from complex inputs
  • Handling large documents without losing track of what matters
  • Producing clean tables, step lists, and formatted outputs
  • Telling you when it is making an assumption vs. working from what you gave it
  • Quick ideation tasks where you want short, punchy options fast — it tends to be thorough
  • Tasks that need real-time web browsing or recent information from the internet
  • Generating code or building prototypes directly in the browser — use Claude Code for that

Separate your input from your question

Paste your research notes first, then on a new line write what you want done with them. Claude works better when it can clearly see what is your content and what is your ask — mixing them together produces murkier output.

Ask it to be honest about what it does not know

Add "flag anything you are assuming rather than taking from my input" to your prompt. This is especially useful for service blueprints — Claude will tell you which steps came from your research and which ones it filled in from general knowledge.

Tell it exactly what format you want

Claude follows precise format instructions closely. Say "give me a table with three columns: pain point, who it affects, and severity" and that is what you will get. Vague requests produce inconsistent output.

Break big tasks into steps

Instead of one giant ask, try "first give me a summary, then I will ask you to build on it." Claude handles multi-step tasks well when the steps are clearly sequenced.

Watch out

Claude can write a lot. If you are getting walls of text, just say "keep it concise" or "limit to five bullets" and it will stick to it.

Prototyping

Claude Code

Claude's coding companion — builds working prototypes directly from your process maps and documentation.

Where to use itVS Code extension or terminal. Not available at claude.ai — this is a separate tool you install.

Claude Code runs in VS Code or the terminal and reads your actual project files. This is completely different from claude.ai in the browser, which is a chat tool with no access to your code or local files. If someone on your team uses "Claude Code" they mean the coding tool, not the website.

  • Building working multi-screen prototypes from your process maps and workflow documentation
  • Adding realistic data so your prototype behaves like real software
  • Updating and iterating on an existing prototype without breaking what already works
  • Reading your actual project files and building on top of what is already there
  • Making visual design decisions — it builds what you describe, not what looks good
  • Tasks where you have not provided clear documentation or a process map to work from

Share your process map before you build

Give Claude Code your future state process map or workflow documentation before asking it to build anything. The more structured your input, the more accurate the prototype — it builds to your logic, not its own.

Ask it to tell you what it will do first

"List the screens you will create before creating them." This lets you catch anything that does not match your design intent before it gets built.

Use it to test your documentation

If Claude Code can build from your spec, a developer can probably build from it too. Gaps in the prototype usually mean gaps in the documentation — a useful signal before you hand off.

Watch out

Claude Code needs clear written direction to produce a prototype that matches your design intent. Vague prompts produce generic results. Treat your process map and workflow documentation as the brief.

OpenAI

ChatGPT

Great for conversation-style working and anything that needs a natural human tone. Its coding agent Codex handles prototype generation from plain language descriptions.

Research & Discovery

  • Brainstorming and ideation — it is good at generating multiple options quickly
  • How Might We statements and workshop facilitation prep
  • Writing that needs to sound natural and conversational
  • Persona writing and stakeholder-facing language
  • Refining and improving outputs through back-and-forth conversation
  • Long-form synthesis with lots of pasted research — Claude handles this better
  • Tasks requiring precise structured formatting like detailed tables or numbered specs
  • Grounding outputs in specific industry knowledge without additional context from you

Set the scene before you ask

Start with "You are a UX designer working on a [type of project] for [type of client]..." ChatGPT performs better when it has a role to play and some context to work from.

Talk to it like a collaborator

"Can you rework the second point?", "Give me three different ways to say this", "Make it shorter." You do not have to start over — it remembers the conversation and you can keep refining.

Ask what you are missing

After getting an output, try "What have I not thought about here?" It often surfaces a useful angle or gap you did not think to ask for.

Use it for anything client-facing

Emails, presentation write-ups, facilitation scripts, workshop introductions — ChatGPT writes in a way that feels natural when read aloud or shared with stakeholders.

Watch out

It can sound confident even when it is wrong. If you are using it for research on a specific industry or process, double-check the facts before bringing them into a stakeholder conversation.

Prototyping

Codex

OpenAI's coding agent — takes written instructions and builds working code from plain language descriptions.

Where to use itAvailable through chatgpt.com and as a command-line tool. No dedicated VS Code extension at this time.

Codex is accessible through the ChatGPT interface at chatgpt.com, which makes it more approachable than tools that require a terminal. If a more guided, step-by-step build experience is what you need, Claude Code or Kiro may feel more structured.

  • Generating working code from plain language descriptions of what you want
  • Building new screens or features based on a written brief
  • Translating your design decisions into a working prototype
  • Iterating on code through back-and-forth conversation
  • Managing large multi-file projects without a clear structure provided upfront
  • Tasks that need a developer to course-correct in real time alongside you

Describe what you want in plain language

Codex translates natural language into code well. You do not need to write anything technical — "build me a screen where a user can submit a form with their name and email, and see a confirmation message after" is enough to get started.

Give it context about the project first

Before asking it to add to an existing prototype, describe what is already built. "I have a three-screen app for [purpose]. The first screen does X, the second does Y. Now I want to add..." produces much better results than jumping straight to the ask.

Start small and build up

Rather than generating an entire prototype in one ask, start with one workflow and confirm it works before moving on. Smaller asks are easier to review and correct.

Watch out

Codex works best with clear, specific descriptions. The more detail you provide about what the screen or interaction should do, the more accurate the output.

Google

Gemini

Best for research grounded in how industries actually work. Its coding assistant is most useful alongside a developer rather than as a standalone build tool.

Research & Discovery

  • Building service blueprints grounded in how an industry actually operates
  • Domain research before stakeholder interviews so you walk in prepared
  • Understanding what is common practice in an industry vs. what one client believes is true
  • Working directly with files you already have open in Google Docs or Sheets
  • Surfacing where standard practice differs from what is officially documented
  • Precise structured document generation — it is stronger at research than formatting
  • Tasks involving large amounts of pasted notes that need deep synthesis
  • Prototype generation or any coding tasks

Ask it to base answers on how things actually work

"Based on how this industry actually operates, not just how it is supposed to work..." prompts Gemini to draw from real patterns rather than textbook descriptions. Useful for service blueprints where accuracy to the domain matters.

Use it to prep before interviews

Before talking to stakeholders, ask Gemini to explain how a specific process typically works in that industry. It helps you walk in with informed questions rather than starting from scratch.

Work with your Google Docs directly

If your team runs on Google Workspace, Gemini can read your documents in the sidebar. Point it at your research notes and ask it to summarize without copying everything across.

Ask it to flag where it is less certain

"Note where you are confident versus where you are guessing." Gemini will tell you which parts of its answer are well-established and which are more speculative.

Watch out

Because it draws from the web, it can sometimes pull in outdated or inconsistent information. Verify anything specific — especially anything regulatory or compliance-related — before presenting it to stakeholders.

Prototyping

Gemini Code Assist

Google's coding assistant — best used as a support tool alongside a developer, not as a standalone prototype builder.

Where to use itVS Code extension (Gemini Code Assist). Also available in JetBrains IDEs and Google Cloud tools.

Gemini Code Assist is a coding assistant designed to work alongside a developer. For UX designers without coding experience, it is most useful for understanding and discussing an existing prototype rather than building a new one from scratch. If you need to build a prototype independently, Claude Code or Kiro will give you a more guided experience.

  • Explaining what existing code does in plain language
  • Inline code suggestions and completions while a developer is writing
  • Making small, targeted changes to an existing prototype
  • Working within Google Cloud or Firebase projects
  • Generating full prototypes from scratch without developer support
  • Managing multi-screen applications end-to-end without someone comfortable with code

Use it to understand code, not just write it

Ask "what does this file do?" or "explain this section in plain language." This is genuinely useful for UX designers reviewing a prototype a developer built — you can understand what you are looking at without needing to read the code yourself.

Great for small changes to existing work

If a prototype already exists and you want to adjust something specific — a label, a layout, a conditional — Gemini Code Assist can make targeted changes more easily than rebuilding.

Pair it with a developer for best results

Gemini Code Assist is most powerful when someone comfortable with code is in the driver's seat. Use it as a way to participate in that conversation more actively, not as a replacement for the developer.

Watch out

Gemini Code Assist is not a standalone prototype builder. If you are trying to build a working prototype without developer support, you will get better results from Claude Code or Kiro.

Microsoft

Copilot

The go-to option in Microsoft environments for research documentation and client-facing outputs. GitHub Copilot is its coding companion for working with existing prototypes.

Research & Discovery

  • Producing outputs ready for Word, PowerPoint, and Teams without extra formatting work
  • Writing in a professional tone suitable for client presentations and senior stakeholders
  • Working within corporate environments where other AI tools have not been approved
  • Polishing research findings and journey maps into presentation-ready documents
  • Refining content directly inside Word and PowerPoint without switching tabs
  • Research-heavy tasks outside of Microsoft files — other options offer more depth
  • Ideation and brainstorming — it is better at polishing than generating new ideas
  • Long synthesis tasks where your input does not live in a Microsoft document

Tell it where the output is going

"Format this for a Word document", "make this work as a PowerPoint slide", "write this as a Teams message." Knowing the destination makes the output much more usable — Copilot adjusts structure and length accordingly.

Ask for client-ready language

"Write this in a professional tone for a client presentation" or "keep it concise for a senior stakeholder audience." Give it a clear picture of who is reading.

Refine directly inside the app

In Word or PowerPoint, highlight any section and ask Copilot to rewrite or improve it in the sidebar. This is faster than copying in and out of a separate chat window.

Work with it, not around it

In many client environments, Copilot is the only approved option. Rather than looking for workarounds, invest in learning how to prompt it clearly — it can do more than most people use it for.

Watch out

Copilot works best when it has access to your Microsoft files. If you are using it as a standalone chat tool without any connected documents, other options will likely give you better results.

Prototyping

GitHub Copilot

Microsoft's coding assistant — lives inside VS Code and helps you understand, write, and modify code.

Where to use itVS Code extension (GitHub Copilot). Also available in JetBrains, Visual Studio, and other IDEs. Requires a GitHub account and a paid subscription.

GitHub Copilot is a developer tool that lives inside VS Code — it is separate from Copilot in Word or Teams. For UX designers, it is most useful for understanding an existing prototype and making targeted changes, rather than building a new one from scratch.

  • Inline code completions and suggestions as a developer writes
  • Explaining what existing code does in plain language
  • Making targeted changes to an existing prototype via chat
  • Working within an existing codebase where patterns are already established
  • Building large prototypes from scratch without developer guidance
  • Tasks that require someone to make design decisions — it generates code, not design direction

Most useful when there is already code to work from

GitHub Copilot excels at extending and completing existing work. If you have a prototype already built, it can help you add to it, fix issues, or understand what is there.

Use the Copilot Chat sidebar in VS Code

Ask it to explain what a file does, make a specific change, or fix a particular issue — all in plain language. You do not need to understand the code to have a useful conversation about it.

Ask it to explain before you change anything

"What does this component do and what would break if I changed it?" is a useful question before making any modification to a prototype someone else built.

Watch out

GitHub Copilot requires a paid GitHub subscription. It is primarily a developer productivity tool — for UX designers, it works best as a way to engage with an existing prototype rather than as a standalone build tool.

Amazon

Kiro

A purpose-built AI coding environment for generating complete working prototypes. Not a chat tool — this one is entirely focused on building.

Prototyping

Kiro

Amazon's AI coding environment — the full build experience, not just a coding assistant.

Where to use itStandalone desktop app. Download and install it separately — it is not a browser tool or a VS Code extension.

Kiro is a standalone application you download and install, like any other desktop app. It is not a browser tool and it is not a VS Code plugin. It is Amazon's dedicated AI development environment — think of it as VS Code rebuilt around AI-assisted development. If you have never used a coding environment before, give yourself some time to get oriented before your first build session.

  • Building complete multi-screen prototypes from a detailed brief
  • Supervised step-by-step builds where you review each change before it is applied
  • Keeping design decisions and visual patterns consistent across the whole prototype
  • Generating prototypes that feel like real software — with navigation, data, and working interactions
  • Quick one-off code changes where you need a fast targeted edit — Claude Code is faster for that
  • Rapid back-and-forth iteration where you are exploring options rather than committing to a direction

Write a detailed brief upfront

The more clearly you describe what you want — what screens are needed, how users move between them, what the tool should and should not do — the better the prototype. Think of it like writing a design brief before you hand off to a developer.

Use supervised mode

Kiro has a setting where it shows you each change before applying it. Use this when building something new so you can catch anything that does not match your intent before it gets locked in.

Start a new session with a recap

If you are returning to a prototype after a break, open with a brief summary of what was built and what you are working on next. This helps Kiro stay consistent with decisions made in previous sessions.

Watch out

Kiro is a coding environment — you will get the most out of it if you are comfortable reviewing what it builds, or if you have a developer working alongside you. If you need a specific interaction changed, being able to point to exactly what needs fixing saves a lot of back and forth.