Prototype Testing: How to Test Prototypes in 8 Steps
Why is it a good idea to test a prototype? And what are some advantages of building and testing prototypes? Keep reading to discover the key steps to testing a prototype effectively, as well as multiple tips on how to refine your design and ensure your product is intuitive and user-friendly before launch.
Prototyping is where ideas come to life, turning abstract concepts into something tangible. But having a prototype is just the beginning. To truly unlock its potential, you need to test it.
And not just run any test, but one that dives deep into user experience, uncovers hidden flaws, and provides clarity on what works and what doesn’t. After all, the success of your product hinges on whether it resonates with your audience.
Imagine you’ve just bought a brand new pair of shoes. You’ve read the reviews, seen the pictures, and you’re convinced they’re going to be the perfect fit. But as soon as you try them on, you realize something’s off (maybe the heel digs into your foot, or the material feels way too stiff).
That’s the reality of product design: what looks great on paper might not always deliver the comfort or functionality you expect. And just like you wouldn’t wear those shoes without giving them a proper test walk, you shouldn’t skip testing your prototype.
But what types of prototype tests are there? And when is the right time to start testing? Keep reading to find out how prototype testing can come in handy to refine your user experience and set up the product for success👇
Kinds of Prototype Testing
Different types of prototype tests serve different purposes, depending on where you are in the development process and what you’re trying to learn. Let’s take a closer look at these 4 most common types of testing:
🟡 Wireframe Testing
Wireframe testing is the foundation of prototype testing. Think of it as a rough draft — the skeleton of your product, showing basic layout and functionality. At this stage, you’re not focusing on colors or fine details, but on whether the structure makes sense.
Testing wireframes helps you evaluate how well users can navigate the app or website and whether the core functionalities are clear. It’s the perfect way to catch major usability issues before you get into the nitty-gritty of design.
🟡 A/B Testing
A/B testing is like the ultimate comparison shopping tool for prototypes. You create two versions of the same feature, page, or element (Version A and Version B) and test them with different user groups to see which one performs better.
This method is fantastic for making data-driven decisions on specific design elements, such as button placement, color schemes, or messaging. By testing variations, you can zero in on what works best and make well-thought-out choices that will lead to better user engagement and conversion.
🟡 Usability Testing
Usability testing focuses on how easy and intuitive it is for users to interact with your prototype. This method typically involves observing real users as they navigate your product, providing valuable feedback on how they experience it.
Do they struggle to understand a feature? Are they frustrated with the navigation? Usability testing helps you identify pain points and refine your design to ensure users can accomplish their goals effortlessly. It’s all about ensuring that your product is user-friendly and efficient.
🟡 Concept Testing
Before you dive too deep into building your prototype, it’s crucial to test the core idea itself. Concept testing allows you to gauge initial reactions from your target audience to see if the concept resonates with them.
Whether it’s a new feature, product idea, or service, this type of testing helps you assess interest and gather feedback early in the process. It’s like a reality check to ensure you’re headed in the right direction before committing more resources to development.
When Is the Right Time to Test Your Prototype?
The right time to start testing your prototype is earlier than you might think. In fact, the best time to begin is during the discovery phase before you even build the first working model.
At this early stage, you’re still shaping your ideas and understanding the problem you’re solving. Conducting early tests with simple sketches, wireframes, or even just concepts can help you gather valuable feedback and avoid wasting time on designs that don’t meet user needs.
Starting with discovery testing helps you validate your core assumptions, identify potential issues, and ensure you’re headed in the right direction before investing significant resources into development. From there, you can gradually increase the complexity of your prototypes and continue testing as you refine your design. So, don’t wait for the “perfect” prototype and start testing your ideas as soon as you have a concept worth exploring.
If you’re ready to dive deeper into prototype testing, check out this step-by-step guide that walks you through the entire process. Plus, you’ll discover several best practices to help you nail the launch of your product ⤵
