A prototype is something that often gets associated with physical products and manufacturing. However, it is in fact something used all the time in software development – and it’s becoming more and more prominent in the agreement process.
What is a software prototype?
A software prototype can be described as a visual presentation of the functionality. When developers work on a software project, it is common to have a mock-up version created to show clients just to make sure it is exactly in line with how it is imagined.
Why are prototypes needed?
Most people want their software developed, finished, installed and ready to use as soon as possible. But there can often be a temptation to focus on the core functionality. This can often leave lots of cracks in the software that don’t get attention until the system starts being used. At this point it can often be very expensive to go back and fix these fundamental issues that are often built into the backbone of the system.
This is where prototypes really come into their own. It helps eliminate all these potential problems and gaps – and address them as a part of the main development focus.
Visualise the software with a working model
With the help of prototypes, the client as well as the developer can see clearly how the various features come together and work. Nothing is assumed and nothing gets overlooked.
There are three key stages of how we typically work with software prototyping:
A software prototype is the key to quality
The prototype and functional specification document work together as perfect complements to outline the end product in as much detail as possible. For us they improve our quality assurance and maintain our vision in line with yours, and for you they help you feel confident that the end product is exactly as desired