Prototype software development is the
process of creating prototypes of software applications. Prototyping has
several benefits for instance, it helps the designer and implementer get
valuable feedback from users in the early stages of the project. It also
becomes easy for the client and contractor to compare if the software made us
matching the specifications according to which it has been built. Prototyping
allows some insight into the accuracy of the initial project estimates and
shows whether or not the deadline or proposed milestones have been met
successfully.
So, now that we have understood what is the
meaning of software prototyping and what benefits it has to offer, let us now understand
the basic process of software prototyping.
1.
Prototyping falls in the second stage of
software development which is modelling and paradigms.
2.
In prototyping it is important to identify the
basic needs of the software such as what will be the input and output
parameters. Other details such as security and integration capabilities can be
ignored at this stage.
3.
There are various classifications of the
prototyping process; one way of classifying is vertical and horizontal
prototyping. You can select the process that is best suited for you.
4.
Once the prototype is developed it is important
to test it with end users and other stake holders, take in their feedback as
constructive criticism.
5.
The final step would be to make improvements to
prototyping considering the feedback and repeat step four and five till there
are no more changes required.
These days the word software is being
replaced with the word application or app, thanks to the growing use of
smartphones. There are some companies that carry out mobile app development
in London and also conduct software or application prototyping processes.