Rapid prototyping
A prototype is useful when it changes a decision. That might be whether someone understands an interaction, whether two systems can exchange the right data, or whether an AI output is useful enough to review. We identify that question first, then build the smallest credible experience that lets you examine it. A prototype should expose uncertainty rather than cover it with a polished presentation.
Discuss a prototypeFor aspiring founders evaluating a product, businesses considering a new customer experience, and teams exploring an unfamiliar technical capability. It is especially useful when the proposed feature list is large but the reason someone would use the product is still difficult to demonstrate.
State the assumption, the people or examples needed to examine it, and the observation that would influence the next step. A workflow prototype might test completion and comprehension. An integration prototype might test access, available fields, and failure behavior. These require different demonstrations and should not share an arbitrary definition of success.
The prototype can be a navigable interface, a functioning interaction, a small connected application, or an evaluated AI workflow. We identify which parts are real and which are represented by sample content or manual steps. Detail goes where it helps answer the question, including awkward states that a static mockup cannot reveal.
Record what was observed, what remains unknown, and which implementation choices would change for production. This separates an appealing demonstration from a dependable product. UFAAFU’s create, preview, publish, and recipient journey is a useful reference for examining a whole experience; PIPIT shows why touch response and feedback must be experienced directly.
Explore the technical decisions in our project portfolio.
No. A prototype tests an assumption and can have deliberate limitations. A minimum viable product must support the real use it promises, including the operational work behind that use. A prototype can inform an MVP, but appearance alone does not establish production readiness.
Bring the proposed user, the task they need to complete, and the decision the prototype should help you make. Existing screens, sample records, or examples of a frustrating workflow are useful. A long requirements document is less valuable than a clear question and representative material.
Yes. Motion, 3D, sound, and touch interactions often need a working study because still images cannot show how they feel. The review should also include a small screen, reduced motion, and a fallback so you can judge both the effect and its practical cost.