Application Prototyping

Application prototyping is the process of creating an incomplete version of the software that is required. A prototype typically only simulates a few aspects of the final solution, and may be completely different from the final product.

What It Involves

The process of prototyping involves the following

Identify the basic requirements, including the input and output of information desired
Develop the initial prototype, this may only be the user interfaces
Customer reviews the prototype and provides feedback on additions or changes
Revise and enhance the prototype based on customer feedback

What Is Produced

A working prototype, this could be Microsoft Access, .Net or Simple Web application.

Why It Is Done

There are many reasons for doing a prototype of an application. A prototype can allow the software designer to get valuable feedback from users early on in a project. This valuable feedback can reduce the cost and time of completing the final project.

Prototyping also improves the quality of the requirements and specifications provided to the developers, allowing them do their job more effectively. With the end users having provided their feedback, it is more likely that the final product will provide a more suitable solution to the business problem.