1.2.8 Describe the purpose of prototypes to demonstrate the proposed system to the client.
A prototype is a simple version of a system produced during the design stage.
The purpose of prototyping is to show the user an interface and to give some indication of how the system is expected to work.
A prototype is not a full working version of the software but it allows the user to propose changes at the design stage.
Prototyping helps define their requirements by allowing users to look at mockups and semi-functional modules from the system.
Better end-user feedback: By using prototyping at an early stage in the project, the analyst/designer can produce different prototypes showing alternative solutions. The user can then give concrete feedback to the designer to indicate whether the solution is one the user agrees with.
Efficiency in the design and production process: The earlier that changes can be made to a system, the less time is wasted completing the implementation and making future alterations. Identifying changes early in the development will save time and money.
Better planning by developer: Prototyping also helps the developer to estimate development costs, timescale, skills, and potential resource requirements. They can source and compare possible materials, if it is a hardware system.