Prototyping involves creating interactive, medium-to-high-fidelity representations of the final product. Prototypes allow designers to test and validate design concepts before development begins. They bridge the gap between static wireframes and the final product, providing a tangible way to explore functionality and user interactions.

• Process:
  • Tool Selection: Designers choose prototyping tools like Figma, InVision, Axure, or Adobe XD based on the project’s complexity and requirements.
  • Interaction Design: Designers add interactive elements, such as clickable buttons, navigation menus, and transitions, to simulate user interactions. For example, a prototype for a mobile app might include swipe gestures, dropdown menus, and form submissions.
  • User Testing: Prototypes are tested with real users to gather feedback and identify issues. This step helps validate design decisions and ensures the product meets user needs.
• Purpose:
  Prototyping helps validate design concepts and ensure they meet user needs. It also provides an opportunity to identify and address usability issues early in the process. By simulating the user experience, prototypes allow stakeholders to visualize the final product and provide feedback before development begins.
• Outcome:
  A functional model of the product that can be used for user testing and stakeholder approval. Prototypes help identify potential issues and refine the design, reducing the risk of costly changes during development.
• Challenges:
  Creating high-fidelity prototypes can be time-consuming, especially for complex products. Additionally, designers must ensure that the prototype accurately represents the final product. Stakeholders may also struggle to differentiate between a prototype and the final product, leading to unrealistic expectations.
• Best Practices:
  • Start with low-fidelity prototypes to test basic functionality and gradually increase fidelity.
  • Use prototyping tools that allow for easy collaboration and feedback.
  • Test prototypes with real users to gather actionable insights.
  • Clearly communicate the purpose and limitations of the prototype to stakeholders.