Prototyping involves creating simple wireframes to test fully functional mock-ups, which requires mastery and is a powerful skill in designing a prototype. Even a great business plan can fail if it is not done right. So, to reap the benefits, you’ve to do it right.
So, what is a prototype? A simple way to think of a prototype is as a mechanism to demonstrate functionality, a tool for visualizing a variety of interactive design work into a single, visible, functional piece. A visual representation of what the product is doing at any given point, what are the interactive elements, and how the product will function in the real world.
Before starting the prototyping process, you simply need to follow a checklist and review the details provided by your client or manager.
Goals of the project
Understanding the big picture. How is the product solving the real need? In short, understanding the product’s utility to solve the customers’ needs.
Competitive products that people use
A strong competitive analysis will provide a clear picture of the state of the marketplace for the product type that the user might expect.
Nature of audience and their goals
Understanding demographics and their needs to create products related to their requirements.
Deliverables
Define your deliverables for a smooth design process as planning your workflow is critical in setting expectations.
Draw your prototypes
Once you have organized your data and have an idea of the layout, structure, and where specific elements of the visual design belong, then your next step is to explore the available space to highlight what’s possible to quantify.
Once you have the idea, creating digital versions of sketches is the first step in formalizing them. The focus, therefore, shifts from creatively adding necessary elements to organizing assets and structure within the designs. This way you are closer to your elements being structured and more practical with a high- level of interactivity, visual design, and content.
