How do you iterate on prototyping failures?

3 Generate and prioritize alternative solutions

The third step to iterating on prototyping failures is to generate and prioritize alternative solutions that address the root causes and effects of failure. You can use brainstorming, mind mapping, sketching, or other ideation techniques to come up with as many possible solutions as you can, without judging or filtering them. Then, you can use criteria such as feasibility, desirability, viability, or novelty to rank and select the most promising solutions. You should also consider the trade-offs, risks, and assumptions involved in each solution.

4 Implement and test the selected solutions

The fourth step to iterating on prototyping failures is to implement and test the selected solutions in your prototype. You can use various prototyping methods and tools, such as paper prototypes, wireframes, mockups, or prototypes, depending on the level of fidelity and functionality you need. You should also define clear metrics and indicators to measure the effectiveness and performance of your solutions, and collect feedback from users, stakeholders, and experts. You should also document and communicate your results and learnings.

5 Evaluate and refine the solutions

The fifth step to iterating on prototyping failures is to evaluate and refine the solutions based on the feedback and data you collected. You should compare the results with your initial goals and expectations, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of your solutions. You should also acknowledge the limitations and uncertainties of your testing methods and data, and avoid confirmation bias or overconfidence. You should then decide whether to keep, modify, or discard your solutions, and plan the next steps for your prototyping process.

6 Repeat the cycle until you reach your goals

The sixth and final step to iterating on prototyping failures is to repeat the cycle until you reach your goals or satisfy your criteria. Prototyping is an iterative and cyclical process, and you should expect to encounter more failures and challenges along the way. However, by following these steps, you can turn prototyping failures into opportunities for learning and improvement, and ultimately create a better product that meets the needs and wants of your users and customers.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?