Expectations...

We all have them. Managing client expectations can be challenging.

Adobe's Ted Patrick has a great suggestion - when showing clients functional prototypes (wireframes) - don't use the default halo skin in flex.

Use a simpler black and white skin to keep them focused on the functionality of the app vs distracting them with apps look -- Check out Ted's Blog.

Wow Ted, what a great idea! He's so right... with flex it's easy to mock up quick prototypes of applications to illustrate functionality, most of us find it's easier for the client to "get it" when they can see a working example and click through the UI. Even with timeline and schedules, they don't just understand how much effort is requred to move a functional prototype over to a finished product.

Clearly if you deliver an app that's got a pleasing interface, you set up an expectations - that the app is further along, or if the client likes UI then they might not consider other alternatives.

Ted's idea is so simple, I wish I had thought of it ....

Wireframes and prototypes are a great tool to communicate the application design -- then again so scratches on a napkins.

One thought why not dumb it down ever further... Actually use a napkin.