P
Prototype
(Context: Technology Management)
1. A system that tries to simulate the full system or at least a material part of it. May be completely discarded should a production version follow.
2. A prototype is the visible, tangible or functional manifestation of an idea, which you test with others and learn from at an early stage of the development process. For example, a prototype might be used to test an idea for a service touchpoint – the point of interaction between a citizen and public service. This might be a mockup of a website or a role playing exercise between a citizen and frontline employee to test out a service script.
Prototypes should be used when you have a hypothesis about a solution, but there is still uncertainty about how it looks, feels and works. Insights from testing can then be used to improve the idea. By developing and improving the prototype, you can maximize what you learn and refine your idea. This helps you move from a version with little detail or functionality (like a rough draft that illustrates the idea) to a version with much more detail and functionality (giving test-users a better sense of how it works). Prototypes are also a way to engage your stakeholders to develop a shared vision or common ground for a solution.
Reference:
2. Proof of concept, prototype, pilot, MVP – what’s in a name? | Nesta
See Also:
1. Agile development; Pilot (or trial); Production; Proof of Concept (PoC)