Prototyping

A prototype should be able to give users an idea of what a product or service will not just look like, but what it will feel like and work like as well. This can be anything as cutting-edge as 3-D printing and laser cutting, to simple techniques likes paper prototyping and building with pipe cleaners and clay. The most important idea behind prototyping is that we have a chance to interact with a model, taking it from abstract to tangible. We use prototypes to gauge user reactions, both positive and negative, and evolve the product from there. Do not get attached to your prototype—it is meant to be a starting point, not an end product.

Bringing in Business Thinking: Many times prototypes are guarded zealously, crafted in secret labs, and not unveiled until the final stages of product development. After a great deal of money, time, and human capital are spent, a product is unveiled—only for errors to be pointed out, usability questioned, and frustration mounted. Prototypes allow for agile development— changes can be made before failure becomes costly. It is essentially the act of creating a minimally viable product (MVP) to begin testing. Prototyping can provide proof of concept to users and investors, and encourage continued development.

Kitchen Tools Project

In our Prototyping class, we were given the challenge of taking a common kitchen utensil and re-imagining its potential. We chose to use the tea strainer as our source of inspiration. After a great deal of research and ideation, we began the prototyping process—an exploration of materials and processes from Chinese basket weaving to silicone molding. Our initial tests were done with aluminum foil, clay, cardboard, and thread. As we gave each other feedback, we delved into more materials and makers’ techniques. Our final prototype was created with 3-D modeling and laser cutting – a synthesis of our inspirations and ideas into one elegant model.