Prototyping Best Practices

Learn how to create effective prototypes that validate assumptions and gather meaningful feedback

The Power of Prototyping

Prototyping is a crucial tool in product discovery that helps teams validate ideas quickly and cheaply before committing to full development. The key is to create prototypes that answer specific questions and generate meaningful learning.

Types of Prototypes

1. Low-Fidelity Prototypes

  • Paper Sketches - Quick drawings to explore ideas
  • Wireframes - Basic layout and structure
  • Storyboards - User journey visualization
  • Best For: Early ideation, quick iteration

2. Medium-Fidelity Prototypes

  • Clickable Wireframes - Basic interaction flows
  • Interactive Mockups - Key user paths
  • User Flow Diagrams - Process visualization
  • Best For: Testing navigation and flow

3. High-Fidelity Prototypes

  • Visual Design Mockups - Detailed UI
  • Interactive Prototypes - Rich interactions
  • Working Demos - Limited functionality
  • Best For: Final validation, stakeholder buy-in

Prototyping Process

  1. Define Learning Goals
    • What specific questions need answering?
    • What assumptions need validation?
    • What user behaviors need observation?
  2. Choose Prototype Fidelity
    • Match fidelity to learning goals
    • Consider time constraints
    • Account for audience needs
  3. Create Prototype
    • Focus on key scenarios
    • Include only necessary elements
    • Maintain consistent fidelity
  4. Test and Learn
    • Conduct user testing
    • Gather feedback
    • Document learnings

Common Prototyping Tools

  • Sketching - Paper, iPad apps
  • Wireframing - Balsamiq, Whimsical
  • Interactive - Figma, InVision
  • Code-based - HTML/CSS, React

Prototyping Best Practices

  • Start Simple - Begin with low-fidelity and increase as needed
  • Focus on Learning - Prototype to answer specific questions
  • Time-box - Set clear time limits for creation
  • Stay Lean - Include only what's necessary for testing
  • Iterate Quickly - Make changes based on feedback

Prototype Planning Template

Prototype Name:
Date:
Team Members:

1. Learning Goals
   - Key Questions:
   - Assumptions to Test:
   - Success Criteria:

2. Prototype Specifications
   - Fidelity Level:
   - Key Scenarios:
   - Out of Scope:

3. Testing Plan
   - Target Users:
   - Testing Method:
   - Key Metrics:

4. Timeline
   - Creation:
   - Testing:
   - Analysis:

5. Resources Needed
   - Tools:
   - Team Members:
   - Other Resources:

Notes:
Next Steps:

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Making prototypes too detailed
  • Testing without clear goals
  • Getting attached to specific solutions
  • Not documenting learnings
  • Trying to prototype everything at once