Prototyping and Testing

Start with a prototype

The mind map Prototype is a useful starting point. It describes a prototype as a tangible answer to a theoretical question and connects it with asking specific questions about an idea. Its branches include creating a model, a mock-up, a role-play and a story, as well as getting feedback. Use the map to see the different forms a prototype can take.

Explore learning through doing

Next, look at the maps titled Prototyping: Learning Through Doing. They describe prototyping as a way to move from abstract ideas to concrete forms and improve an idea before implementation. Their branches also cover creativity, risk and generating ideas. Compare the maps to see how each presents the role of prototyping, then return to Prototype to connect those ideas with its examples.

Look at testing and ideas

The page also includes a mind map about a business owner seeking a more innovative and competitive company. Its chosen idea concerns creating a culture of innovation. You can also explore Pretotype, which organizes its material around an idea and pretotyping, and the map on experimenting to develop and validate solutions, which includes testing, failure and learning.

There are no quizzes on this page. Instead, use the maps to check your understanding: look at a branch, explain it in your own words, then return to the map to check what it says.

Place the topic in the unit

Prototyping and Testing is a section of Innovation and Design Thinking in Entrepreneurship. The maps offer different ways into that section, from making a model to considering how ideas are developed and tested. Choose a map and follow its branches at your own pace.