Figma is a SaaS solution for collaborative design and interactive prototyping that is revolutionizing the creation of user interfaces (UI) and user experiences (UX). With over 10 million active users (src: Figma.com), it is acclaimed for its simplicity, its cloud accessibility and its ability to bring together design teams, developers and project managers in the same space. Figma experienced accelerated adoption during the health crisis and the massive deployment of remote working, strengthening its role in remote collaborative environments.
What is Figma?
Figma is a cloud-based interface design and prototyping tool that allows you to create, collaborate, and share models in real time.
Figma works on all operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux) and can be used on any computer via a browser, which guarantees great compatibility and flexibility.
Accessible via browser (Chrome, Firefox) or desktop/mobile app, it eliminates version conflicts and supports agile design workflows. Its use is simple and adapted to different contexts, whether for the design, collaboration or sharing of projects. Used to design web, mobile or app interfaces, Figma also integrates Figma design systems and plugins to speed up processes.
What is Figma used for and for whom?
Figma is used to:
UI/UX design : Create visual interfaces, mockups of mobile and web applications, as well as websites, with powerful vector tools.
Interactive prototyping : Simulate interactions (clicks, transitions) via dynamic models.
Real-time collaboration : Collaborative management of a project where designers, developers and project managers simultaneously modify a project, with comments on the design.
Target audience : UI/UX designers, web designers, design students, design students, agile teams, startups and large companies (e.g. Uber, Airbnb). Figma is often used by design teams, developers, producers, and marketers.
Figma adapts to the specific needs of each user or project, without requiring the use of complex functionalities from the start. The tool is very close to its users and responds to their feedback to continuously improve its interface and functionalities.
Key features
Real-time collaboration : Several users edit a file simultaneously, such as Google Docs (src: leblogdudiriant.com).
Code-free prototyping : Create interactive prototypes with animations and transitions.
Design systems : Reusable component and element libraries to ensure consistency.
Figma Plugins : +1,500 extensions (e.g. wireframe generators, AI integration).
Online accessibility : Works on all browsers/OS, without heavy installation.
Figma Mirror : Test designs on mobile in real time.
Figma versions : Available in free, professional, organization and business versions, offering flexibility adapted to each need.
Advanced customization : Manage fonts to ensure the visual consistency of each design element.
Testimonial: “Figma has reduced our back and forth by 50% thanks to direct collaboration”, shares Clara, UX designer at a SaaS startup.
How does Figma work in the cloud?
Figma stores projects on the cloud, accessible via a browser or the app. Changes are synchronized instantly, and collaborative reviews avoid version conflicts. The files are secure (GDPR compliance), and exporting (PDF, PNG, CSS) is simplified for developers.
Comparison with other tools
Figma is distinguished by its collaborative fluidity and its accessibility. Here is a comparison table (2025 data, src: CapTERRA, Brandeploy.io):
≈ $9.99/month (standalone), or included in Creative Cloud All Apps (~$55/month)
Strong integration with Adobe CC, interactive animations
Less suited for modern collaborative workflows
4.4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Sketch
Partial (via web collaboration only)
≈ $9–12/month (subscription) or one-time license ≈ $120/year (Mac only)
Mature and powerful UI design tool for Mac
Mac-only, limited collaboration in standard license
4.3/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
InVision
Yes
Free tier available, paid plans from $7.95 – $99/month
Fast prototyping, ideal for visual validation
Limited design capabilities, less effective for advanced workflows
4.0/5 ⭐⭐⭐☆
Figma can also be integrated with other online communication and collaboration tools such as Slack, Trello, and Jira, such as Slack, Trello, and Jira, which optimizes design teams' workflows.
Figma benefits
Unparalleled collaboration : Several users on a file, with comments on the design visible live (src: lebigdata.fr).
Accessibility : Generous freemium version (3 free projects), usable without advanced skills.
Rich ecosystem : Figma Community templates, plugins (e.g.: AI integration, CSS export), and integrations (Slack, Jira).
Multi-platform : Works on all devices, with Figma Mirror for mobile.
Reduced version conflicts : Automatic backup in the cloud.
Does Figma meet your needs?
Figma is ideal if you are looking for a collaborative, intuitive and scalable tool for interface design, interactive prototyping or agile project management. Design students access it via the Education plan (free), while pro teams benefit from paid plans for complex design systems. Less suitable for very large files (slowdowns reported on CapTERRA). Figma is designed to be easily used by professional designers and hobbyists alike, making its adoption accessible at all levels.
For example, during a team project, several members can work simultaneously on the same Figma model, comment in real time and follow the evolution of the design without losing information.
Figma is a must for UI/UX teams and learners thanks to its real-time collaboration and ecosystem. Try the freemium version on figma.com or explore the Figma learning platform to get started.
Figma Design Systems allow you to create libraries of reusable components: buttons, icons, colors, fonts. Each modification of a component is automatically propagated wherever it is used, guaranteeing visual consistency and considerable time savings.
Practical advantages:
Master components that can be modified in one click for the entire project
Shared styles between teams and projects
Variables to manage colors and spacings centrally
Grids and Auto Layout for automatic responsive layouts
The layout is based on intuitive tools: flexible frames, customizable grids and positioning constraints. Designers structure their interfaces precisely while maintaining the flexibility needed to adapt to different screen formats.
Prototyping and animation
Figma transforms your static models into interactive prototypes without leaving the tool. Create comprehensive user journeys with smooth transitions, micro-interactions, and complex animations to test the experience before development.
Key features:
Interactive links between frames with custom transitions
Smart Animate for automatic animations between states
Overlays and modals to simulate real interactions
Prototype shareable by simple link for user tests
Prototypes can be shared in one click, allowing feedback and comments to be collected directly on the design. This approach drastically reduces the back and forth between design and development, while validating UX choices from the early stages of the project.
Training and resources to master Figma
Figma offers a complete ecosystem to progress quickly, regardless of your initial level.
Free official resources:
Figma Academy: structured courses from beginner to expert
Playground: interactive training files
Detailed technical documentation and best practices
Weekly webinars with case studies
Community and ecosystem:
Community files: thousands of free templates and UI kits
Essential plugins: Unsplash, Lorem Ipsum, Stark (accessibility)
Active forums and French-speaking Discord/Slack groups
Specialty YouTube channels (DesignCourse, Figma)
Learning takes place naturally through practice, with a smooth progression curve thanks to the intuitive interface and resources adapted to each level.
Conclusion
To conclude, it is appropriate to take an objective look at Figma. This tool has carved a significant niche in the interface design ecosystem, thanks to its real-time collaborative functionality and robust prototyping capabilities.
However, like any tool, it has strengths and weaknesses. Figma stands out in environments where collaboration between designers and developers is crucial.
Its ease of access via a web browser is an undeniable plus. However, some designers may find limitations in specific features compared to other tools like Adobe XD or Sketch.
For those looking to dive deep into the world of UI Design, mastering Figma can indeed be a major asset.
It is therefore wise to consider adequate training to fully exploit the potential of Figma.
Whether you are new to the field or a professional looking to broaden your horizons, structured training can help you navigate the intricacies of Figma, and apply it effectively in your interface design projects.
Thanks for reading this article.
Do not hesitate to try the Figma subsidiary called FigJam, a whiteboard application complementary to its flagship website. FigJam also makes it possible to organize collaborative workshops, reinforcing the possibilities for team brainstorming and planning.
FAQS
What is Figma and how did the takeover by Adobe in 2022 impact the software?
Figma is a design software Cloud-based UI/UX. The acquisition by Adobe ($20 billion) strengthened its updates, integrating more AI tools and compatibility with Adobe, while remaining independent and accessible.
How do I use Figma to create an effective layout on a page?
In the Figma editor, use grids and frames to structure your layout. Add elements (buttons, images) and customize with fonts and colors for a consistent page.
Is Figma compatible with all operating systems like Windows and MacOS?
Yes, Figma works on Windows, macOS, and via browser on any operating system, without heavy installation, ideal for the office or on the go.
How does Figma help marketing teams optimize content?
Figma allows you to create graphics for social networks or campaigns, with templates shared within teams for visual content aligned with the strategies of marketing.
How does Figma improve the user experience in development?
Through interactive prototypes, Figma simulates the user experience, allowing development teams to test ideas and adjust elements before production.
Can I customize fonts and colors to reflect my design idea?
Yes, the Figma editor offers thousands of fonts (via Google Fonts) and a color picker accurate to bring your idea to life with unique graphics.
Is Figma suitable for courses to learn design on a machine?
Yes, the free Education plan and the Figma learning platform offer courses accessible on any machine (Windows, macOS) for beginners and pros.
Do the Figma updates include social media features?
Yes, the 2025 updates add social media templates, simplifying content creation engaging visual within collaborative workflows.
How does Figma excel in the collaborative design market?
Figma dominates thanks to its real-time collaboration, its intuitive editor and its plugins, offering excellence in the management of elements for UI/UX on the market.
Can I use Figma to manage complex products in production?
Yes, Figma design systems organize elements (buttons, fonts) for scalable products, facilitating the production and sharing of ideas within teams.
TRANSPARENCY ON PARTNERSHIPS We carefully choose the software, platforms, and services we recommend based on their quality and reliability. Our team tests and approves them, regardless of any business agreements.If you make a purchase or sign up through our partner links, we may earn a commission. This doesn’t cost you extra and helps keep our content free.
You might also like...
Check out more reviews to learn something new. Explore a variety of tools and resources that could be helpful and give you fresh ideas.
.svg)
-2-2.avif)
