Wireframes are the first step in the process of designing digital assets such as apps or websites. They offer a bare-bones visualization of how the product will look. User interface and user interface engineers use them to translate product ideas into visual representations that can be discussed and improved.
Wireframes are used extensively in developing all kinds of wares. Even if the item is a ‘real world’ product, there will probably be associated digital components, such as an online store or membership rewards app. This makes wireframing an essential step in product design today.