What Are Prototypes and Why Are They Important?
Discover what a prototype is and how it can help you save time, money, and resources by incorporating feedback, along with other advantages of using prototypes.
A prototype is a model of a proposed product. It can be either physical or digital and turns your original idea into something real. A prototype helps you see if your product is practical, allowing you to make any needed changes to ensure it works well before you invest more time and resources.
Prototypes are also great for getting feedback from potential users. This feedback helps designers make necessary changes and fix any problems with production and development before moving forward.
3 Benefits of a Successful Prototype
A prototype is a sample of a product rather than a fully finished version. It can be something as simple as a quick design or parts of a product made for early testing. Here are three key benefits of creating a prototype:
1. It Saves Resources
Discovering problems early in the process is much cheaper than finding them after development has begun. Creating a prototype can help you save costs as the project moves into more expensive stages. You might even realize that you should abandon your original idea and use the insights gained to pursue something different. A prototype helps you identify which aspects of your product are effective, allowing you to focus your time and budget on those areas. Changes will inevitably be needed before your product is market-ready, and having a prototype helps you prepare for that. If your prototype fails, you can save time and effort by discarding the initial concept and using the lessons learned to focus on a better solution. In this case, even a failed prototype can guide you to a new direction.
2. It Invites Feedback
Getting feedback on your prototype is valuable, especially when it comes from potential customers or users. Their input can significantly improve the final version of your product. When you show your prototype to your target audience, ask for their opinions on what works and where they see room for improvement. Working with a tangible prototype allows users to provide immediate feedback. Even if you decide not to act on their suggestions, you can still gain insights into areas that may need attention.
3. It Attracts Investors
The feedback you gather from potential users can help you gain credibility with investors, which is crucial for start-ups. Investors need to see real interest in a product and its potential for success in the market. A prototype allows them to visualize this potential and better assess the product’s feasibility.
Related Terms
Product Lifecycle
Mockup
Wireframe
