What Should I Test in a Prototype?

A prototype is at its best when it's answering specific questions rather than being a vague “let's see how it looks.” The most useful things to test usually fall into a few buckets: does it work, does it fit, does it feel right, and can it be made. Deciding what you need to learn before you build tells you what kind of prototype to make.

The Big Things Worth Testing

Test One Thing at a Time

Each round is clearer when it's chasing a specific question. Trying to prove everything at once makes it hard to know what a result is telling you — and tempts you to change too many things between rounds.

Let the Question Shape the Prototype

If you're testing function, you'll want something closer to production materials; if you're testing looks, a good appearance model matters more. The thing you're trying to learn decides the process, the material, and the detail.

Common Mistakes We See

A Good Next Step

A short conversation can help you decide what each prototype round should test — and what kind of prototype answers it best.

Please keep your question general — no confidential product details are needed for the introductory consultation. If confidential review is needed later, an NDA can be arranged before a longer engagement.