Axure Online vs Local Export: Which Should You Choose?

When it comes to sharing Axure prototypes, you have two main options: publishing to Axure Cloud or exporting locally as HTML files. Each method has its own advantages and use cases. This comprehensive guide will help you make the right choice for your team.

Understanding the Two Methods

Axure Cloud Publishing

Axure Cloud is Axure's official hosting service that allows you to publish prototypes directly from Axure RP to the cloud. Your prototypes are hosted on Axure's servers and can be accessed through a unique URL.

Local HTML Export

Local export generates HTML files that you can host anywhere - on your own servers, third-party hosting services like Axure Viewer, or share as downloadable files.

Axure Cloud: Pros and Cons

Advantages of Axure Cloud

• Quick Publishing: One-click publishing directly from Axure RP
• Version Control: Automatic versioning with ability to restore previous versions
• Team Collaboration: Built-in commenting and feedback system
• Access Control: Set passwords and permissions for viewers
• Updates: Easy to update - just republish from Axure RP
• Mobile App: Official Axure mobile app for viewing prototypes
• Analytics: Basic viewing analytics included

Disadvantages of Axure Cloud

• Cost: Requires paid subscription (starts at $25/month for individuals)
• Storage Limits: Limited storage based on plan
• Internet Required: Must have internet to publish and view
• Vendor Lock-in: Dependent on Axure's service availability
• Performance: Loading speed depends on Axure's servers
• Customization: Limited control over hosting environment
• Privacy Concerns: Sensitive data stored on third-party servers

Local HTML Export: Pros and Cons

Advantages of Local Export

• Free: No recurring subscription costs
• Flexibility: Host anywhere - your servers, cloud storage, or services like Axure Viewer
• Offline Access: Can be viewed without internet connection
• Complete Control: Full control over files and hosting
• No Limits: No storage or bandwidth restrictions (depends on your hosting)
• Privacy: Keep sensitive prototypes on your own infrastructure
• Customization: Can modify exported files if needed
• Portability: Easy to archive and transfer

Disadvantages of Local Export

• Manual Process: Requires exporting and uploading separately
• No Built-in Versioning: Must manage versions manually
• Limited Collaboration: No integrated commenting system
• Update Process: Need to re-export and re-upload for changes
• Hosting Required: Must arrange your own hosting solution
• Technical Skills: May require basic web hosting knowledge

Feature Comparison Table

Here's a side-by-side comparison to help you decide:

Feature	Axure Cloud	Local Export
Cost	$25-99/month	Free
Publishing Speed	Very Fast	Moderate
Version Control	Built-in	Manual
Collaboration	Excellent	Limited
Offline Access	No	Yes
Privacy Control	Limited	Full Control
Storage Limits	Yes	No
Customization	Limited	Full

When to Choose Axure Cloud

Axure Cloud is ideal when:

• You need frequent collaboration and feedback from team members
• Version control is critical for your workflow
• You want the simplest publishing process possible
• Budget allows for subscription costs
• You're working with distributed teams across locations
• You need built-in access control and permissions
• Your organization uses Axure RP across multiple projects

When to Choose Local Export

Local HTML export is better when:

• Budget is a constraint or you need a free solution
• You work with sensitive or confidential information
• You need offline access to prototypes
• You want full control over hosting and files
• You already have hosting infrastructure
• You're working on client projects requiring deliverable files
• Storage and bandwidth are unlimited on your hosting

Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds

Many teams use a combination of both methods:

• Internal Collaboration: Use Axure Cloud for active projects requiring team feedback
• Client Delivery: Export locally for final client presentations and archiving
• Public Demos: Use free services like Axure Viewer for public showcase
• Sensitive Projects: Export locally for confidential work

Alternative: Third-Party Hosting Services

Services like Axure Viewer offer a middle ground:

• Free hosting with no subscription
• Quick upload process (though not as fast as Axure Cloud)
• No storage limits
• Instant shareable links
• No vendor lock-in - you keep the HTML files

Making the Decision

Consider these questions when choosing:

For Small Teams or Freelancers

If you're a freelancer or small team, local export with services like Axure Viewer often makes more sense economically while still providing easy sharing capabilities.

For Large Organizations

Larger organizations with multiple concurrent projects and distributed teams typically benefit from Axure Cloud's collaboration features despite the higher cost.

For Agencies

Agencies often prefer local export to maintain control over client deliverables and avoid ongoing costs that affect project margins.

Migration Between Methods

The good news is you're not locked into one method. You can easily switch between Axure Cloud and local export as your needs change. All you need is your original .rp file.

Conclusion

Both Axure Cloud and local HTML export are valid options, each with distinct advantages. Your choice should depend on your specific needs:

• Choose Axure Cloud if collaboration, version control, and convenience are priorities and budget allows
• Choose Local Export if cost, privacy, flexibility, or offline access are more important
• Consider a hybrid approach to get the best of both methods

Remember, the best solution is the one that fits your team's workflow and requirements. Don't be afraid to experiment with both methods to find what works best for you.