Describe prototyping types (evolutionary, throwaway)

16 System Life Cycle – Prototyping Types

What is Prototyping?

Think of a prototype as a first draft of a software system – a quick, rough model that lets us test ideas before building the final version. It’s like sketching a comic strip before drawing the full comic: you can spot problems early and make changes without wasting time and money.

Evolutionary Prototyping (🔄)

In evolutionary prototyping, the prototype is refined and expanded through multiple iterations until it becomes the final product. Each cycle adds more features, improves usability, and incorporates user feedback.

  1. Build a basic version – just enough to show core concepts.
  2. Gather feedback – ask users what works and what doesn’t.
  3. Improve the prototype – add features, fix bugs, tweak design.
  4. Repeat until the prototype meets all requirements.

Analogy: It’s like building a LEGO model piece by piece, checking each block before adding the next.

Throwaway (Rapid) Prototyping (🚀)

Throwaway prototyping creates a quick, disposable model that is discarded after its purpose is fulfilled. The goal is to explore ideas and gather requirements, not to evolve into the final system.

  • Develop a simple mock‑up of the user interface.
  • Show it to stakeholders for feedback.
  • Discard the prototype and start fresh with a new design.

Analogy: It’s like drawing a quick sketch on a napkin – you’ll erase it later to start a cleaner drawing.

When to Use Which?

Prototyping Type Best For Key Benefit
Evolutionary Complex systems where requirements evolve. Reduces risk by continuously refining the product.
Throwaway Exploring design ideas or gathering initial requirements. Fast feedback with minimal cost.
Exam Tip: When answering questions about prototyping, remember to:
  1. Define the type of prototype.
  2. Explain its main purpose.
  3. Give a clear example or analogy.
  4. State when it is most appropriate to use it.
Use bullet points or a short table to keep your answer concise and easy to read.
Quick Recap:
  • 🔄 Evolutionary – build, test, refine, repeat.
  • 🚀 Throwaway – build, test, discard.

Remember: the right prototype saves time, money, and headaches!

Revision

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