WHAT IS IT?
Wireframes outline the what, where, and how of a website or application. They set the functional foundation upon which user interaction is built. Annotated wireframes may include a business / workflow process as well as descriptions about the elements on the wireframes themselves. Also known as schematics and blueprints.Samples
WHO USES IT?
Design teams use wireframes to iterate through designs establishing layouts positioning and functionality of pages and page elements. Development teams use them to understand structure and business rules. QA uses them to write test scripts and understand functionality.
HOW ARE THEY MADE?
Step 1: Identify content areas, content descriptions, and content priorities. Provide identifying information (project name, page/state, audience) and administrative information (author, date created/modified)
Step 2: Tell how the screens function by using scenarios to explain their purpose. Show how users interact with a site with links and form elements, etc. Detail annotations to show functionality and rationale of screen elements as well as give direction for copy.
Step 3 (Optional):Identify important layout or design elements. Give context in the overall design with a mini-site map or flow chart. Use sample content or give description of content.