Many businesses are reliant on software for their operations, but they are expensive to develop. Sometimes, software development projects fail because the budget runs out. It can also be because the developers realize that the final product will not solve the problem it was created to address. This is why software prototyping is necessary. Product managers and business owners can use it to foresee how the software will look and function before it is developed.
Software Prototyping Explained
Software prototyping is the process of building the model of an application before it is created so developers and other important stakeholders can assess its functionality and appearance. Software prototypes give developers and designers an opportunity to receive feedback on the final product. This allows them to make adjustments before they build the application.
This boosts client satisfaction, saves development costs, and reduces the time needed to complete the project. It also helps the business owner who needs the software get a visual representation of the final product instead of relying on descriptions.
When Do You Need a Software Prototype?
You should create a software prototype at the start of the design phase of the project. Software development projects usually go through these different phases:
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Planning phase
This is when a client approaches a software development team or company like SEVEN with an idea of what they want. Then, the professionals will develop ideas for building the application according to the required specifications. They will also estimate costs, create a schedule for the entire project, and discuss each person’s role.
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Design phase
Software developers, engineers, and designers analyze their client’s requirements during this phase and decide the best tools to use for the project. This analysis will help them create a software prototype that is similar to the final product. This prototype gives the development team a view of what they are working towards before investing resources into the project.
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Implementation phase
This is when the development team writes the code for the application and is the longest phase of the project. If they decide to adjust the application design, it should reflect on the software prototype so everyone gets an updated view of the final product.
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Testing phase
Here, the development team will test the software for bugs and errors and ensure it meets their client’s specifications. This phase can sometimes run parallel to the implementation phase because some developers test their code immediately after they write it.
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Deployment phase
Software developers usually have two copies of any application they are building so they can launch the product and continue to upgrade and add new features to it without affecting the user experience.
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Maintenance phase
Applications need continuous maintenance, so after launch, the development team will monitor its performance, fix bugs, make improvements, and resolve client complaints.
Endnote
Software development can be time-consuming and expensive, but software prototyping helps business owners and development teams conserve resources. It does so by providing a visual representation of the final product so the client and team members can get an early look and agree on the desired outcome.
