Prototype

What is a Prototype

A Prototype is a preliminary version of a product that simulates the final user experience. It ranges from simple paper sketches to interactive digital models, allowing teams to test concepts, validate designs, and gather feedback before full development.

Types of Prototypes

Common variations include:

• Low-fidelity: Paper sketches, basic wireframes, quick mockups
• Mid-fidelity: Clickable wireframes, basic interactions
• High-fidelity: Detailed visual design, complex interactions
• Functional Prototypes: Working models with core functionality

When to use Prototypes

Create prototypes during design exploration, user testing, stakeholder presentations, and technical feasibility assessment. They're particularly valuable when validating new concepts, testing user flows, or communicating design intentions.

Benefits of Prototyping

Prototypes enable early problem detection, reduce development risks, facilitate meaningful user feedback, and help align stakeholder expectations. They allow teams to iterate quickly and cost-effectively before committing to full development.