What Is a Prototype?

A prototype is a model of a proposed product. It transforms the original concept into physical or digital form. It acts as a small-scale example of your product to ensure it is feasible, and it also allows you to make required tweaks to ensure the product is viable before investing more time and resources into it. 

A prototype is also a great tool for getting feedback from potential users. This helps designers make changes and fix manufacturing and development issues before proceeding with the product creation process. 

3 benefits of a successful prototype

A prototype is a sample rather than a complete product ready for trials. It can be as simple as a quick design or parts of a product created for early-stage testing. Consider these three key benefits when creating a prototype. 

1. It saves resources.

Discovering flaws early in the process is less expensive than when development begins, so creating a prototype can save costs as the project progresses to more expensive stages. You can even decide whether to forgo the concept and use what you've learned to move on to something else. 

A prototype will also help you find out which areas of your product work so you can spend your time and focus your funds on them. Inevitably, changes will need to be made before your product is ready to hit the market, and this way, you will be prepared. 

It’s possible that your prototype won’t work. In this case, you can save time and work by scrapping your original concept and using the data from the unsuccessful attempt to focus on a better solution. Even in this case, the failed prototype can save you time by switching focus to a different concept.

2. It invites feedback. 

Gaining feedback on your prototype is helpful when it comes from potential clients or users who can greatly enhance the outcome of your product. When presenting a prototype to your target audience, ask them their thoughts on what works and areas where they think improvement is necessary. 

Working with an actual prototype allows users to give immediate feedback. Even if you choose not to implement their critiques, you can gain insight into potential areas of concern.  

3. It attracts investors.

Using the feedback you acquire from potential users can help you attract and build credibility with investors, which is especially important for start-ups. Without seeing actual interest in a product and its ability to deliver, investors may not be able to measure your product’s feasibility in the market properly. With a prototype, investors can see the product’s potential. 

Related terms

• Product designer

• Product lifecycle

• UX designer

• Mockup

• Wireframe

• Computer graphics

Next steps

Prototypes are a model of a proposed product. By transforming the concept into physical or digital form early in the development process, you can optimise resources, get valuable feedback, and entice investors with the end product's potential. 

Start learning more about prototypes and gaining the skills to further your career with the Google UX Design Professional Certificate on Coursera. This beginner-friendly programme can help you cultivate in-demand skills for a career in UX design.