Finally, there is a fifth state, Testing , an iterative process that affects all phases in detail: understanding, observation, definition, ideation, prototyping and implementation.
Prototyping follows the empathy, definition and ideation phases and is carried out following the instructions of the previous steps, but unlike these, it requires physical work . Once the prototype has been obtained, the next step is to test it with a consumer panel, to understand whether what has been assumed during the ideation and definition really and positively responds to market demands.
During the testing phase, the prototype is shown to potential customers , chosen based on the results of the demographic analysis as well as other criteria, in order to understand the possible market variables. The test may yield a positive or negative result, or a partial result, and all the information obtained during this phase will be useful in making the decision to continue with the production of the product with or without modifications, or to cancel it altogether.
Prototyping
Benefits of prototyping
Does the company need to innovate its product portfolio? Or perhaps the startup, especially in the initial phase of its life, wants to enter the market by conquering a niche not yet saturated by competitors? In any case, it is necessary to make prototypes: to obtain a 'sample' of what is intended to be put into production , a model that uruguay whatsapp data reproduces its characteristics and, if necessary, its functionality, on which to carry out market and operational tests. In the case of a startup, the prototype also serves to show something concrete to investors and convince them of the goodness and concreteness of the idea.
In fact, startups are the ones that think and act most in terms of prototypes and that benefit most from prototyping. To understand what differentiates an innovative startup from a large technology group, let's consider that the former must understand, and sometimes anticipate, ideas and needs expressed by the market and transform them into services and products.
Prototypes can be produced in different types and forms , depending on the reason for creating them. Some are developed just to represent or imitate the functioning or appearance of the product, while others involve the creation of a miniature version of the product with full or partial functionality.
Paper prototype : This is an example of a 'disposable' prototype, created in the form of rough drawings, made by hand or using graphics software.
3D printing : The latest technologies have made it possible to print a 3D version of the product, which can also be functional, although not suitable for subsequent series production.
Digital prototype : Allows developers to create a virtual model of the product, with which to verify how the various components work together and how the product will appear once completed. In practice, digital prototyping allows developers to virtually examine the completed product before it is actually realized.
Scale model : It is a smaller, non-functional prototype of the final product, and is generally used for prototyping large products, such as buildings, industrial machinery, vehicles, etc.
Increasingly, prototyping requires programming knowledge and skills and the use of software such as Figma, Sketch or Principle. This also requires specific training, in addition to that required in the field of marketing and user experience , which can be acquired through a Master's in UX & Customer Experience .