A product begins with an idea. When that idea is to be transformed into a functional product, it is best to start by creating a prototype. So, what are some examples of product prototypes?
Understanding the various types of prototypes can help in deciding which one to choose for presenting an idea to consumers or investors, as well as for testing new designs.
First and Foremost, What is a Prototype?
Creating a prototype or prototyping is a fundamental process for developing new products through a physical representation of an idea. This method helps designers or product creators transform a concept into a functional item.
With a prototype, designers can help determine what needs to be improved and refined in the design.
Prototyping also offers a way to solve problems and try out new designs before proceeding to the final product stage.
Benefits and Functions of Prototypes
Some of the benefits and functions of creating product prototype examples are as follows.
1. Validating Initial Ideas
Prototypes save time and resources in the long run. This is because prototypes can identify design flaws or functional issues, allowing them to be corrected before becoming production problems.
2. Testing Functionality
Through prototypes, it can be tested whether a product is capable of performing its intended functions.
3. Faster Feedback Acquisition
By viewing the prototype, stakeholders can directly provide feedback on the design and functionality of the product to be developed.
4. Facilitating Communication and Collaboration
Prototyping can help facilitate communication and collaboration among designers, developers, and business leaders.
5. Cost Savings
Prototypes can help save time and money in the long run. This is because the number of reworks and necessary changes can be reduced, leading to significant cost savings.
6. Enhancing User Experience
With just a prototype, potential product users can already get a realistic sense of how the product will look and be used.
Types of Prototypes
The type of prototype used depends on the stage of the product development process, the nature of the product, and the available resources. Below are some of the most common types used in product management and operations.
1. Low-Fidelity Prototype
This is a simple and often non-interactive product model. It is typically used in the early stages of the product development process to validate product concepts and gather initial feedback.
2. High-Fidelity Prototype
This is a detailed and usually interactive product model. Its form closely resembles the final product, capable of providing a realistic experience for users.
This type of prototype is typically used in the final stages of the product development process to test product functionality, gather detailed user feedback, and demonstrate the product to stakeholders.
3. Functional Prototypes
This is a working model of a product that demonstrates its functionality. Although its appearance may not resemble the final product, this prototype can provide a realistic representation of how the product will function.
Functional prototypes are typically used to test product functionality, identify potential issues, and gather user feedback.
Read also: How to Calculate and Formula for Cost of Goods Sold, Key to Your Business Success
What are some Product Prototype Examples?
Here are some product prototype examples commonly used for digital and physical products.
1. Sketches and Diagrams
Also known as paper prototypes, these are product examples in the form of sketches or drawings used to explain initial ideas, created on paper.
Examples include flowcharts, user flows, and mind maps.
2. 3D Printing or Rapid Model
3D printing allows designers to more quickly create realistic design models using computers and printing machines.
Once the design is complete, the product can be easily modified based on observations and testing. This is because prototype files only need to be reprogrammed digitally.
This method is becoming increasingly popular for creating prototypes, especially for products with complex shapes and geometries.
3. Physical Model
This product prototype example can be made from any material as it does not need to have functional parts and is only intended to provide a rough idea of the desired design.
Its purpose is solely to test the function, strength, and durability of a product.
This type of prototype is very useful for products that are difficult to visualize in 3D printing, and also helpful for understanding the size, scale, and overall appearance of a product.
4. Wireframe
This prototype acts as a digital diagram or product layout commonly used for websites, software, or other digital tools.
Wireframes can be used by anyone working on a project—from copywriters to developers—to navigate different structures and content placements.
5. Virtual Role-play
This prototype allows users to try using a product in a simulated environment, enabling them to see how the product will function in real life.
This type of prototype is very useful for products that require a high level of user interaction, such as games or virtual reality.
6. Feasibility
Usable for both digital and physical models, this prototype allows designers to add to the design after creating an initial prototype.
If designers suddenly realize that an important part of the product is missing, a feasibility model is created to be adapted as new ideas emerge.
7. Working Model
This prototype allows a product idea to be tested to see if it truly functions as desired. Thus, with this prototype, it can be determined whether the product follows the initial plan and if its design is truly functional.
One of the purposes of creating this prototype is to reduce risks, as potential shortcomings, challenges, or improvements are identified early in the development process.
8. Video Prototype
As its name suggests, this prototype takes the form of a digital animation or simulation of a product under development.
It is often used to demonstrate product features and benefits to stakeholders, as well as to help build hype and interest in the latest product.
9. Horizontal
This is a low-fidelity prototype model that demonstrates the basic functions and features of a product. It is used to test and refine the design of external product features, such as shape, size, and aesthetics.
This type of prototype is very useful for consumer-focused products that rely on visual appeal to drive sales.
10. Vertical
In contrast to the horizontal product prototype example, this is a high-fidelity model that can demonstrate various product capabilities and features.
This type of prototype is often used in the development process and is designed to be as close as possible to the final product. The purpose of creating a vertical prototype is to help ensure that the product is functional and can perform its tasks.
Well, that is a complete explanation of product prototype examples that should be known before starting to create a product.
If you need assistance in managing your business, the Labamu application offers various features to assist you.
Download it now on Google Play or App Store to join over 70,000 MSMEs in Indonesia who are already benefiting from this application!
