Low-fidelity prototype

A low-fidelity prototype is an early, simplified version of a product or interface, often used during the initial stages of design to test ideas and gather feedback. These prototypes are typically created using basic tools such as paper sketches, wireframes, or simple digital mockups, and they focus on core functionality and user flows rather than detailed design or aesthetics. By stripping away complex visual elements and interactivity, low-fidelity prototypes allow teams to quickly explore and iterate on different concepts, making it easier to test assumptions and identify potential usability issues early on. This method is cost-effective and time-efficient, enabling stakeholders to focus on overall structure and user experience. The feedback collected at this stage helps refine the product before moving on to more detailed, high-fidelity versions, ensuring a smoother design and development process.

Resources

A video showcasing usability testing of a new user interface with a paper-based prototype. The user seemed to enjoy the process, and the testing was completed using a cost-effective yet efficient method.

A comprehensive webpage with plenty of videos on prototypes, what they are, and their values. It highlights the cost-effectiveness of early prototyping and its role in reducing time-to-market. It also includes a section dedicated to low-fidelity prototypes, covering common techniques and a video on paper prototyping.