Role of Prototyping

Prototyping is an iterative approach often used to build systems that users initially are unable to describe precisely. The concept is made possible largely through the power of fourth-generation languages (4GLs) and application generators.

Prototyping is, however, as prone to defects as any other development effort, maybe more so if not performed in a systematic manner. Prototypes need to be tested as thoroughly as any other system. Testing can be difficult unless a systematic process has been established for developing prototypes.

There are various types of software prototypes, ranging from simple printed descriptions of input, processes, and output to completely automated versions. An exact definition of a software prototype is impossible to find; the concept is made up of various components. Among the many characteristics identified by MIS professionals are the following:

* Comparatively inexpensive to build (i.e., less than 10 percent of the full system's development cost).
* Relatively quick development so that it can be evaluated early in the life cycle.
* Provides users with a physical representation of key parts of the system before implementation.
* Prototypes:

Do not eliminate or reduce the need for comprehensive analysis and specification of user requirements.

Do not necessarily represent the complete system.

Perform only a subset of the functions of the final product.

Lack the speed, geographical placement, or other physical characteristics of the final system.

Basically, prototyping is the building of trial versions of a system. These early versions can be used as the basis for assessing ideas and making decisions about the complete and final system. Prototyping is based on the premise that, in certain problem domains (particularly in online interactive systems), users of the proposed application do not have a clear and comprehensive idea of what the application should do or how it should operate.

Often, errors or shortcomings overlooked during development appear after a system becomes operational. Application prototyping seeks to overcome these problems by providing users and developers with an effective means of communicating ideas and requirements before a significant amount of development effort has been expended. The prototyping process results in a functional set of specifications that can be fully analyzed, understood, and used by users, developers, and management to decide whether an application is feasible and how it should be developed.

Fourth-generation languages have enabled many organizations to undertake projects based on prototyping techniques. They provide many of the capabilities necessary for prototype development, including user functions for defining and managing the user—system interface, data management functions for organizing and controlling access, and system functions for defining execution control and interfaces between the application and its physical environment.

In recent years, the benefits of prototyping have become increasingly recognized. Some include the following:

* Prototyping emphasizes active physical models. The prototype looks, feels, and acts like a real system.
* Prototyping is highly visible and accountable.
* The burden of attaining performance, optimum access strategies, and complete functioning is eliminated in prototyping.
* Issues of data, functions, and user—system interfaces can be readily addressed.
* Users are usually satisfied, because they get what they see.
* Many design considerations are highlighted, and a high degree of design flexibility becomes apparent.
* Information requirements are easily validated.
* Changes and error corrections can be anticipated and, in many cases, made on the spur of the moment.
* Ambiguities and inconsistencies in requirements become visible and correctable.
* Useless functions and requirements can be quickly eliminated.