Sharing a Figma prototype without requiring an account can be incredibly useful for design reviews, client feedback, and team collaboration.
Figma’s flexibility allows us to share interactive prototypes and user interface designs effortlessly. If you’ve ever needed to present your work to someone without getting them onboarded, you’ll find this guide essential.
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to generate a shareable link that grants public access to your Figma project while maintaining control over your design.
We’ll walk through the public share link setup, ensuring easy design collaboration, even for those outside your immediate team.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Generating a shareable link for your Figma prototype.
- Setting permissions for external viewers.
- Best practices for collecting feedback.
Streamline your design presentations and simplify how you gather insights with public links in Figma.
How to Share Figma Prototype Without an Account: Quick Workflow
- Open Your Prototype:
- Begin by opening the Figma file that contains the prototype you wish to share.
- Access the Share Settings:
- Click on the “Share Prototype” button located in the top right corner of the screen.
- Generate a Shareable Link:
- In the sharing settings, select the option that allows access to “Anyone with the link.” This ensures that anyone who receives the link can view the prototype without needing to sign in or create an account.
- Copy and Share the Link:
- Click on the “Copy Link” button to copy the shareable link to your clipboard. You can now send this link to anyone you want to give access to your prototype.
- Consider Viewing Permissions (Optional):
- If you want to restrict access further, you can set specific permissions such as allowing only viewing or commenting. However, note that setting permissions may require recipients to have a Figma account if you choose options like “Can comment” or “Can edit.”
Sharing Prototypes Without User Accounts
Setting Up Prototypes for Public Sharing
Accessing the prototype view (Presentation Mode)
First, navigate to the prototype you want to share. Enter Presentation Mode by clicking the “Play” icon at the top-right corner of the screen. This mode lets you review the interactive elements and transitions as users would experience them.
Using the “Share Prototype” button effectively
Now, locate and click the Share Prototype button while in Presentation Mode. This opens up the sharing interface, where you can adjust settings and generate a shareable link tailored for public access.
Generating and copying public links
In the sharing interface, select the option for Anyone with the link. This ensures that no login is required, streamlining the process for stakeholders and clients. Copy the generated link—this URL is what you’ll share to give unrestricted access to your interactive prototype.
Troubleshooting Access Issues
Addressing login prompts for shared links
Sometimes, despite setting the permissions correctly, users might still see a login prompt. Double-check that the link sharing is set to Anyone with the link. If the issue persists, consider regenerating the link to ensure it reflects the correct permissions.
Workarounds for browser compatibility and privacy settings
Compatibility issues might arise due to a viewer’s browser or privacy settings. Recommend using modern browsers like Chrome or Firefox for the best experience. Additionally, instruct viewers to check their browser settings to make sure that cookies and JavaScript are enabled, as these are often required for interactive prototypes to function correctly.
Sharing Files Without User Accounts
Step-by-Step Guide for Sharing Figma Files
Opening the desired file
Start by opening the file you wish to share in Figma. Head straight to your project dashboard and click on the particular design you want to make accessible.
Accessing and using the “Share” button
Once inside the file, locate the Share button at the top-right corner. This button is your gateway to all sharing options. Click it to open a drop-down menu.
Adjusting permission settings for public access
In the share menu, find the section called Link Sharing. Here, you will see various settings:
- Choose Anyone with the link to allow unrestricted access.
- Adjust permissions to Can View, ensuring viewers can’t make any changes.
Generate the shareable link and copy it. Now your design is ready to be shared with anyone, no account required.
Common Misconceptions
The myth that Figma accounts are mandatory
One widespread myth is that everyone needs an account to view Figma files. This is simply untrue. Employing the “Anyone with the link” option dispels this, allowing you to share your work seamlessly.
Issues caused by misconfigured sharing options
Misconfigured sharing options often lead to unnecessary barriers. Setting a design to Organization-specific sharing when it needs broader visibility can cause access issues. Ensuring the right permissions from the get-go avoids these headaches, offering a frustration-free experience for your viewers.
Transition in Figma’s Sharing Features
Changes to “Can View Prototypes Only” Permission
Overview of the removed feature
Figma once offered a “Can View Prototypes Only” permission setting that allowed users to access prototypes without diving into the design files themselves. A handy feature, now discontinued.
Implications for users and teams
With this option gone, users and teams must adapt. The direct result? A shift towards ensuring clear communication about which links grant access to what. Now, the lines between different levels of access feel less distinct, introducing a layer of complexity for managing design workflows.
Updated Sharing Process
Navigating the revised sharing options
The sharing landscape in Figma is evolving. Without the dedicated prototype-only view setting, users must navigate Link Sharing options more meticulously:
- “Anyone with the link” for easy, hassle-free sharing.
- Explicitly defining Can View permissions to maintain control over who sees what.
Using these features means fine-tuning each share link to suit the specific needs of your collaborators.
Differentiating between prototype and design file sharing
Sharing prototypes versus design files now requires more attention to detail. Prototypes are interactive, meant for stakeholders to walk through user journeys. By setting links to “Can View”, you’re ensuring that the viewers experience the interactions as intended, without diving into the actual design files, which tend to be more about collaboration, review, and iteration.
Each type of sharing has unique purposes and settings:
- Prototypes: geared towards experience and flow, typically shared more broadly.
- Design Files: rich with editable content, shared within the design and review team.
Best Practices for Sharing Figma Files and Prototypes
Ensuring Privacy and Security
Setting proper access permissions
When it comes to design files, setting proper access permissions is paramount. It’s not just about who gets to see your work but ensuring that the right people have the correct level of access. Default to “Can View” unless someone needs editing capabilities. This keeps your project secure.
Avoiding unintentional sharing of design files
Careful with those links—sharing with “Anyone with the link” can be risky if you’re not vigilant. Accidental sharing happens. Double-check your settings before you hit ‘Send’. Make sure only your intended audience has access.
Optimizing the Sharing Workflow
Separating prototypes from design files
Here’s a pro tip: separate prototypes from design files. It simplifies the sharing process. Your team can tinker away in the design file without affecting the client-facing prototype. Cleaner, more focused interactions.
Leveraging presentation mode for client interactions
Presentation mode is your best friend during client demos. It strips away the clutter, spotlighting the design itself. Clients don’t need to wade through the design editor—they get a polished, interactive experience. Smooth and professional.
Communicating with Stakeholders
Explaining access methods to non-Figma users
Communicating with stakeholders who aren’t familiar with Figma can be tricky. Explain access methods clearly. Walk them through the steps to access the prototype via the shared link. Keep it simple. They don’t need the tech jargon.
Preparing for technical issues during sharing
Always be ready for those inevitable hiccups. Prepare for technical issues during sharing. Whether it’s browser incompatibilities or login prompts, anticipate the problems and have solutions ready. This ensures smooth sailing and keeps everyone focused on the design itself.
FAQ on How To Share Figma Prototype Without Account
How do I share a Figma prototype link?
To share a Figma prototype without an account, open the desired project and click on the “Share” button at the top.
Set the link to “Anyone with the link” can view. Copy this link and share it with your clients or team members for easy access.
Can someone view my Figma prototype without signing in?
Yes, you can enable public access to your Figma prototype by setting the sharing permissions to “Anyone with the link”.
This allows external viewers to preview your design without needing a Figma account, making collaboration seamless.
How do I ensure my design remains secure when sharing publicly?
In the sharing settings, choose “View only” access to protect your design. This way, clients and reviewers can see the prototype but cannot make any changes.
Always review the link permissions before sharing to ensure your design’s integrity is maintained.
What are the steps to change sharing permissions in Figma?
Click on the “Share” button within your project, then navigate to the permissions dropdown.
Select “Anyone with the link” and choose the appropriate access level (view or comment). This enables you to control who can view or interact with your prototype.
Can viewers leave comments on my shared Figma prototype?
To allow comments, set the sharing permissions to “Anyone with the link can comment”.
This enables viewers to provide feedback directly on the prototype, streamlining the review process and enhancing design collaboration.
Are there any limitations on sharing Figma prototypes?
The primary limitation is that without a Figma account, viewers cannot edit the design.
They can only view or comment, depending on the permissions you set. This is ideal for client presentations and initial design reviews.
Can I track who has viewed my shared Figma prototype?
Figma does not provide detailed analytics on who has viewed a shared prototype.
For better tracking, you can use third-party tools or request feedback directly from your viewers. This helps you keep tabs on who’s engaging with your design.
How do I revoke access to a shared Figma prototype?
To revoke access, go to the “Share” settings and change the link permissions to “Only people invited”.
This disables the public link, ensuring that only specific users with Figma accounts can access your prototype, maintaining control over your designs.
Is it possible to share a Figma prototype for public reviews?
Yes, you can share a Figma prototype for public reviews by setting the link permissions to “Anyone with the link”.
This is useful for getting broader feedback and user testing, as viewers can access and interact with your prototype without needing to sign in.
Do I need a paid Figma account to share prototypes publicly?
No, even with a free Figma account, you can share prototypes publicly. The key is to set the right sharing permissions.
This feature is available across various Figma plans, simplifying the process of gathering feedback and presenting your designs.
Conclusion
To effectively understand how to share Figma prototype without account, focus on the public sharing settings. By enabling “Anyone with the link” in the Share settings, you allow clients and team members to access the prototype with ease. This feature is invaluable for design reviews and gathering feedback.
Key Steps to Remember:
- Generate a shareable link in your Figma project.
- Set permissions to “Anyone with the link” for broader access.
- Opt for “View only” or “Comment” settings to protect your design integrity.
This method streamlines the collaboration process, especially for external reviewers. Understanding these settings can drastically improve your workflow, making it simple for others to engage with your interactive design prototypes without needing a Figma account.
With these steps, you can efficiently share your Figma prototypes and harness constructive feedback, all while maintaining control over your design. Happy designing!
