Prototyping isn’t for every project, but for the projects it is right for, it can be a tremendous asset. As Dr. Sheldon Cooper would say, when prototyping finds its ideal project match, it’s a “bazinga” winner. The Prototyping Model is a system development method (SDM) in which a prototype (an early draft of a final system or product) is built, tested and then reworked as necessary until an acceptable prototype is eventually achieved from which the complete system or product can be developed. A prototype serves as a throwaway model made to understand the requirements of a project before design and coding begins. In essence, prototyping is a project test run. Here’s the general prototype industry process step-by-step:
Like the invention of the wheel, telephone and internet, prototypes have been the early models of many of history’s great technological advancements. The worst-case scenario of any prototype is customers mistaking it for the finished project. Customers seeing a rough prototype may not understand it is merely a model that needs to be finished or polished. Prototypes are commonly used in design and development of physical projects when large system building construction or manufacturing is involved. For projects built on software that have many changing variables and unknown logistics, prototypes are invaluable. There is a misconception that prototypes aren’t a viable option for projects facing tight completion deadlines. However, with 3D printing, making prototypes is comparatively speedy and shouldn’t slow down the project very much. But for projects demanding trial and error, prototyping is an essential component to guarantee optimum success. But you must ensure you have the budget and time a prototype-built project demands. If you do, the payback can be immense, just look at the iPhone. The Benefits of Prototyping
The Disadvantages of PrototypingAlas, no project development model is perfect expect for, perhaps, oxygen plus hydrogen equals water. The disadvantages of prototyping must be weighed before deciding to implement them into project development.
The Prototype ConclusionFor projects that require revision and end user feedback and recommendation implementation, prototyping is a must. Prototyping directly determines the direction of the entire project, and its eventual success. For successful prototyping identifies and corrects problems long before they can negatively impact and irreparably harm the final finished project. |