What is prototyping?
The word originates from the Greek prtotupos meaning first example. Our definition is an idea communicated to others and tested
The best way to create successful products whether it’s a smart phone app or a gadget is by user testing and prototyping.
Creating prototypes throughout the process can get you valuable feedback from end users to improve products. This process allows you to engage with real people and observe how they interact with your product. Interaction with your prototypes will help you understand your end users pain point and allows you to improve the many aspects of a product such as product design, interface, experience and feel.
Prototyping can be applied to many stages of the product development to test unfinished ideas with users to get the best results. To be successful you must be open to feedback.
Incorporating feedback into your design, the result is long term benefits in the success of your projects.
Show your users flow to your business, stakeholders and coworkers to get their critique on the design. User test low to high fidelity design with end users as there can be a better improved version.
Low fidelity prototypes are best for catching problems before they get too big to fix. For example, story boards, wireframes, mood boards, sketching.
Mid fidelity involves the visual design and interactivity, function and the final product. For example, clickable prototypes, style tiles, coded prototypes.