What is the primary purpose of a prototype in product development?

• A. To replace all tests
• B. To test assumptions
• C. To be the final product
• D. To increase packaging

Answer: (B)

Prototyping is a learning step where you simulate aspects of a product to see if your assumptions about how it should work and how users will react are correct. By building a rough version, you can watch people use it, gather feedback, and observe what fits or fails, so you can refine ideas before committing to a final build. This helps confirm or adjust your design choices, reduces risk, and guides development as you iterate.

Prototypes aren’t meant to replace all tests or be the finished product; testing happens at multiple stages. They also aren’t about packaging decisions—packing and presentation are separate concerns.