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Live Prototyping

Live Prototyping involves running a near-complete version of your solution in a real-world setting for a defined period to gather data and identify areas for optimization. This method allows for real-time troubleshooting and iteration, providing valuable insights into the feasibility and viability of the solution.

21600-43200 min2-10 peopleHard
When to Use

Use Live Prototyping when you need to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of a solution in a real-world environment, understand how all components of the solution work together, and identify areas for improvement before a full-scale launch.

How It Works

Solves: Uncertainty about real-world performance, difficulty integrating different solution components, lack of data on user behavior in a natural setting.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to facilitate this method
  1. 1

    Step 1: Define Learning Goals (30 minutes). Clearly identify the key questions you want to answer and the aspects of feasibility and effectiveness you need to validate.

  2. 2

    Step 2: Determine Scope (30 minutes). Decide on the duration, location(s), and scale of the live prototype, keeping it as small as possible while still gathering meaningful data.

  3. 3

    Step 3: Plan Logistics (60 minutes). Identify the resources needed (space, staff, permits, etc.) and develop a plan for data collection and monitoring.

  4. 4

    Step 4: Run the Prototype (Weeks/Months). Implement the live prototype, closely observing user behavior and collecting data on key indicators.

  5. 5

    Step 5: Iterate and Adapt (Ongoing). Continuously analyze the data and make adjustments to the solution based on real-time feedback.

Facilitator Tips
  • Emphasize the importance of continuous iteration and adaptation based on real-time feedback.
  • Encourage the team to be flexible and open to making changes on the fly.
Variations
  • Run multiple live prototypes simultaneously to test different variations of the solution.
  • Focus on specific aspects of the solution in each live prototype to gather more targeted data.
Source: IDEO Design KitLearn more