Making it easier for Web application developers to prototype and specify applications is the goal of Axure Software Solutions' Axure RP 3 (formerly Ubiquity RP), which shipped last month. Using Axure RP 3, I could build browser-based mock-up prototypes of Web applications, making it possible to show early design and functionality specifications for an application.

In addition, I could attach, for example, notes, status information and assignments to components in the application prototype.

Besides generating a prototype, I could use the same information to create a Word-based specification document for the application.

Axure RP 3 isn't perfect. Although I liked much about the product, its interface could be more intuitive. It was often needlessly difficult to work with objects. (For example, the cursor icon provided no feedback on whether I could move an object.)

In addition, although Axure RP 3 is useful, at $589, I think it is priced five to 10 times higher than it should be. Most users will probably stick with Web design tools to prototype applications.

For additional information, go to www.axure.com.

This article was first published on eweek.com.