Prototyping
A prototype is an early version of a product that displays essential features that will later on be used in the production version of the product or service. By building and testing prototypes we save both time and money, because it is much more cost effective to make design changes to low fidelity prototypes than it is to make changes to a fully functional product.
Timing
A prototype can most often used during Visioning and iDesign, particularly for formative and summative testing. The earlier in the process, the more rudimentary the prototype.
Methodology
We use a variety of prototyping techniques and technologies to create anything from low fidelity paper-and-pencil prototypes through screen shots and wireframes, to interactive HTML or image-mapped screens and other high fidelity prototypes.
Benefits
- The earlier a design is put in front of users, the earlier changes can be made.
- It is often faster and cheaper to change a drawing or a wire frame than it is to change code.
- There is less of an emotional investment in a prototype and therefore there is less reluctance to make radical changes.
Duration
Since prototyping can occur during Visioning and iDesign, it can last for much of the entire duration of the product development cycle.