Prototype
A prototype makes a design testable against a specific question. Its form and scope follow the uncertainty that needs to be resolved.
A prototype is a provisional representation of a planned product or workflow that allows a specific question to be investigated. It might consist of paper screens or a coded model. Not every version needs to be clickable.
Purpose before detail
In a hypothetical portal project, the question is whether the proposed document organisation makes sense. A simple representation may initially suffice. If the behaviour of a search is to be investigated instead, the model must support that interaction.
The question determines the scope needed. A detailed-looking prototype does not demonstrate production-ready software, secure permissions or persistent storage. What it represents and what deliberately remains open should be recorded.
Sources
Related terms
- WireframeA wireframe shows the structure of a page or screen. It supports discussion of content placement without proving a complete interaction flow.
- Interactive prototypeAn interactive prototype responds to selected actions. It can reveal a path through an interface without implementing the real processing behind it.
- Focus orderFocus order determines the route through focusable elements. It should preserve meaning and operability, including during dynamic changes.
- Keyboard trapA keyboard trap leaves keyboard users stuck within a region. Deliberately containing focus in a dialog needs a keyboard-operable exit.
- Skip linkA skip link bypasses repeated navigation and leads to the main content. The destination must also work for subsequent keyboard navigation.
- Accessible nameAn accessible name labels a control for assistive technology. It should explain the action and agree with the visible text.
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