Prototyping

JMU

Prototyping
An Introduction

Prof. David Bernstein
James Madison University

Computer Science Department

bernstdh@jmu.edu

Prototypes

Defined:
- A working model of part (or all) of a final product
Types:
- Horizontal - represents just one layer (e.g., GUI mock-up)
- Vertical - some aspects of all layers (e.g., proof of concept)

Fidelity of Prototypes

Low Fidelity:
- Usually "paper" representations
Medium Fidelity:
- Usually an "electronic" simulation with a human in the loop (sometimes called "Wizard of Oz" because of the man behind the curtain)
High Fidelity:
- Usually an "electronic" implementation of the interface and simulated control logic

Uses

Needs Elicitation:
- Help users express themselves
- Help designers understand the domain
Requirements Generation:
- Help explore unknown/different ideas
- Help document a design alternative