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November 28, 2013

Marvel – Turn Images Into Prototypes

ss-marvelapp
Marvel is a web-based tool that developers can use to quickly turn images into interactive prototypes with no coding required. These prototypes can be viewed on any device and synced from a user’s project folders on Dropbox in real-time.

Stop sending static mockups to your clients and start sending interactive prototypes instead. Connect your Marvel account to Dropbox to begin. Marvel will extract images from the folder where you save your mockups or wireframes in Dropbox, and then regularly check back on that folder to see if you’ve made any changes. Files saved in PSD, PNG, and JPEG formats are seamlessly turned into interactive prototypes. All you have to do is tell Marvel which images should click-through and where buttons are located on those image. Marvel also provides you with advanced features that you can apply before saving your completed prototypes.

Each prototype developed with Marvel has its own URL, which allows your clients to view those prototypes in full resolution in their own browsers, regardless of the devices they’re using. Any changes you make to a prototype after you’ve sent the link are updated in real-time, which means clients can see those changes right away without having to download any new files or refresh any existing links.

Practical Uses:

  • Create an interactive prototype based on an existing mockup
  • Continue using your favorite tools to create wireframes
  • Give clients an easy way to review the prototypes you’ve created
  • Review prototypes from any browser on any device

Insider Tips:

  • Marvel supports PSD, JPEG, and PNG files
  • Give Marvel access to your Dropbox account to sync your design files
  • Marvel never deletes or edits the files in a user’s Dropbox account

What we liked:

  • Prototypes are updated automatically each time a user changes the PSD
  • Marvel uses the existing project folder in Dropbox, rather than requiring users to move their files into new folders
  • Clients can see the changes a developer makes to their prototypes in real-time
  • Marvel is completely free

What we didn’t like:

  • Marvel doesn’t currently support AI files, however that capability is “coming soon”

Alternatives:

Company Info:

  • Launched: July 2013 (Private Beta)
  • Privately Held
  • Headquarters: London, England
  • Founded by: Murat Mutlu, Jonathan Siao, and Brendan Moore
  • Web site: https://marvelapp.com

Costs:

  • Free

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