Building an invoice generator

A simple solution that works

There’s often a temptation to overcomplicate in design, but when it comes to solving real problems, simple solutions are almost always more effective. This is especially true for tools designed to be nothing more than what they need to be — focused on making repetitive tasks easier.

Take the example of the invoice. It’s a straightforward document, but for freelancers, it can become a tedious task that slows down getting paid. For those who care about design, the impulse might be to create an invoice template that matches the style of their portfolio. However, if freelancing isn’t your main source of income, using a lightweight web tool to automate invoice design is probably more practical.

There are many tools available, ranging from cluttered websites with banner ads to expensive subscription services. But what’s often needed is something simple and functional, without unnecessary features.

While working at the design studio, 56, we worked on an invoice tool that was straightforward and did what it needed to do — nothing more. Over a few weeks, we reviewed hundreds of invoices, designed new ones in Figma, and built a working prototype. The result was a tool that made creating invoices quick and easy.

The value of this tool is in its simplicity. The process is clear, the limitations are a benefit, and the tool just works without complication.

Whether it’s an invoice maker, a currency converter, or a time zone calculator, the most effective solutions often focus on the essential, avoiding unnecessary complexity.