User Experience
Prototype
Plain English
A rough glossaryVersionA version is a specific iteration of software or a product at a point in time.Open glossary term to test ideas.
Definition
A prototype is an early glossaryVersionA version is a specific iteration of software or a product at a point in time.Open glossary term of a product used to test ideas, glossaryInteractionInteraction refers to any action a user takes within a product and how the system responds. It includes clicks, taps, gestures, and inputs that drive the user experience.Open glossary term, and concepts.
In practice
Used in design to validate assumptions before full development.
In context
Its fidelity should match the question. Testing whether a flow makes sense needs paper; testing whether an glossaryInteractionInteraction refers to any action a user takes within a product and how the system responds. It includes clicks, taps, gestures, and inputs that drive the user experience.Open glossary term feels right needs something clickable.
The reality
Prototypes are sometimes mistaken for final solutions.
Compared with
Prototype vs Wireframe
A wireframe shows structure and content at rest. A prototype connects screens so glossaryBehaviourBehaviour refers to how users interact with a system, including actions, patterns, and responses.Open glossary term can be tested. Wireframes settle what goes where; prototypes settle whether the sequence works.
FAQ
Common questions
A few practical answers to the questions that usually come up around this term.
What is a prototype?
It is an early glossaryVersionA version is a specific iteration of software or a product at a point in time.Open glossary term used for testing ideas.
Why are prototypes important?
They help validate concepts quickly.
What types of prototypes exist?
Low-fidelity and high-fidelity prototypes.
What is a common mistake?
Treating prototypes as final products.
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