Prototyping is a software development approach that involves building an early, simplified version of a software system, known as a prototype, to help users and developers understand system requirements and refine them through feedback and iterations.
- The goal is to clarify user needs, reduce misunderstandings, and improve the final system’s design.
Steps in the Prototyping Process:
Prototyping typically follows these four main steps, repeated in cycles as needed:
1.) Identify Requirements:
- This initial phase involves collecting the basic requirements of the system from users or stakeholders.
- Instead of trying to gather a complete and detailed list of requirements from the beginning, only key features and functionalities are identified to build the initial prototype.
2.) Develop the Prototype:
- A working model of the system is created with limited functionality that represents key aspects of the software.
- This may include screens, navigation, input-output formats, or even basic processing. The focus is on visible parts that users can interact with and evaluate.
3.) Review and Refine:
- Users interact with the prototype and provide feedback on functionality, design, and usability.
- Developers analyze the feedback and revise the prototype accordingly. This cycle of feedback and refinement may occur multiple times until the users are satisfied.
4.) Implement Final System:
- Once the prototype is refined and validated, the complete system is built using the gathered and clarified requirements.
- The final product incorporates the changes and improvements identified during prototyping, and it is then tested, documented, and deployed.
Advantages of the Prototyping Model:
- User Involvement: Encourages active participation from users throughout development, increasing user satisfaction.
- Improved Requirement Clarity: Helps uncover and clarify ambiguous or misunderstood requirements.
- Risk Reduction: Identifies problems early in the process, reducing the chance of costly changes later.
- Faster Feedback Loop: Users can see tangible results early, which speeds up the feedback and adjustment process.
- Better Design Decisions: Allows experimentation with UI, logic, and features before finalizing.
