Rapid Prototyping

Tasks set
Rapid Prototyping allows of quick and efficient testing of a prototype still under development:

• The product will be consistently optimised during the test phase.
• Prompt first results and early feedback as regards the current developmental stage of the prototype are possible.
• The period of time needed to complete the product will be shortened.
• Faults and problems can be discovered end eliminated early on to avoid unnecessary development costs.

Method
In order to profit from the greatest synergy effect possible and to optimise the prototype effectively, it is a prerequisite that the responsible product managers, developers (e.g. design agencies) and SirValUse co-operate closely. It is hence important that all participants partake in the entire field phase.

• Iterate investigation and optimisation days are appointed. (e.g. day 1: test sessions with subsequent discussion of the outcome, day 2: optimisation of the prototype, day 3: test sessions with subsequent discussion of the outcome, etc.)
• There will be explorative test sessions with individual respondents who have to evaluate the prototype.
• While solving problems every participant is observed and asked to "think out loud." After each task the facilitator and the participant jointly reflect upon the problems that have occurred. (see fact sheet "User Experience Test").

Process phase

• Conception: early developmental phase when dealing with new products.

Sample
Per test day and variant of the prototype 4 to 5 respondents ought to be questioned. The sample thus includes 12 to 15 participants altogether.

In order to clearly identify a trend it is important to employ a sufficient number of participants who deal with tasks on the respective variants; 4 to 5 respondents suffice. Moreover, it is crucial that enough time is left subsequent to the test sessions for discussing the results with all participants.

Timing
The test phase will comprise approximately 5 days including the optimisation days. The final report may be delivered 3 days after the final test session.