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5 Free Remote UX Tools to Boost Your Workflow

Discover budget-friendly solutions for remote UX research and collaboration

2 ½ minute read

Hey there, fellow UX advocates! Working remotely can be challenging on its own, and even more difficult when you’re on a budget. Many of the most exciting and essential tools for conducting UX research and design come with heft monthly subscription costs. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. I’ve put together a list of five free tools that can help you navigate the world of remote UX without breaking the bank. Let’s dive in and explore these budget-friendly UX tools!

1. Google Meet (Video Conferencing): While Zoom might be a popular choice, Google Meet offers a free, reliable alternative for video conferencing. With features like screen sharing, real-time captions, and a 60-minute time limit for free accounts, you can conduct remote UX interviews without worrying about your wallet.

2. Otter.ai (Transcription): Manually transcribing research sessions can be time-consuming. Otter.ai is a free transcription tool that uses AI to transcribe your meetings and interviews in real-time. The free plan offers 600 minutes of transcription per month, which should cover a good chunk of your research sessions.

3. Trello (Project Management): Keeping track of projects, tasks, and deadlines can be tricky when working remotely. Trello is a free and user-friendly project management tool that can help you stay organized with its visual, card-based interface.

4. InVision Freehand (Digital Whiteboard): InVision Freehand is a free digital whiteboard that allows you and your team to collaborate on sketches, wireframes, and mockups in real-time. It’s a great alternative to physical whiteboards for remote teams.

5. Chalkmark by Optimal Workshop (First-Click Testing): If you’re looking for a free tool to gather quick insights on your designs, Chalkmark is worth checking out. This first-click testing tool allows you to test your designs with users by uploading screenshots and setting tasks. You’ll receive a heatmap of users' first clicks, helping you identify potential usability issues. Keep in mind that the free plan only includes three studies, so use them wisely!

With monthly subscriptions running into the hundreds of dollars per month, per user, it make sense to look for savings when your team is on a budget. These five free tools will help make remote UX research and collaboration more efficient. You don’t need to spend a fortune to create great user experiences. With these budget-friendly solutions, you can keep your research game strong and your wallet happy. Happy researching!