Lesson 9: Software Prototype

1. Introduction:

   • Software Prototyping aims to validate and refine requirements through iterative development of mock-ups or prototypes.

2. Types of Prototypes:

   • Throwaway Prototyping:
     • Rapidly develop a prototype to understand requirements, then discard it.
   • Evolutionary Prototyping:
     • Develop a basic prototype and iteratively refine it based on user feedback.

3. Advantages:

   • Requirement Elicitation: Helps clarify and refine user requirements early in the development cycle.
   • Visualization: Provides stakeholders with a tangible representation of the software.
   • Risk Reduction: Identifies design flaws and usability issues early, reducing project risk.

4. Disadvantages:

   • Limited Functionality: Prototypes may not fully represent the final product’s capabilities.
   • Scope Management: Scope creep can occur if stakeholders confuse prototypes with final deliverables.
   • Documentation: Requires documentation to ensure requirements are accurately captured and communicated.

5. Real World Application of Software Prototyping in Designing JUST-Learning App:

   • Example: Prototyping a new user interface for course navigation on the JUST-Learning Portal, allowing users to provide feedback on usability and functionality.
   • Benefits: Facilitates early user engagement and feedback, ensuring the final interface meets usability expectations. Rapid prototyping accelerates the design process and reduces development time.
   • Restrictions: Requires clear communication with stakeholders to manage expectations regarding prototype limitations and functionality.

Conclusion: Software Prototyping is beneficial for projects where requirements are unclear or evolving, such as designing intuitive user interfaces for the JUST-Learning Portal. It supports iterative refinement and early validation of design concepts.