In this tutorial, we will discuss what is Prototype Model, and where and when to use it, we will also discuss some advantages and disadvantages of the Prototype Model
Prototype Model
Prototype Model is an SDLC Model where the software prototype is prepared before the development process. It’s a process of software through which the software is developed by the steps involved in it.
In this model we just discuss the process, as development and testing, designing all the phases are included in it. It’s a step to take one by one for complete and accurate software development.
In the Prototype model we just create software and handed over to the customer for any correction and any changes he needed, and if he wants either change he sends it back to the company, and company changes according to his requirement and if he satisfied with the software then company process the further steps and develop the software completely and then handed over to the customer.
When is the Prototype Model used?
Not sure about Requirements
Whenever the client is confused and doesn’t know much about the software usage and designs then the prototype model is applied.
Big Projects and High Risk
Whenever there is high risk and the projects are bigger and time-consuming then a prototype is applied because it is the best to use in such situations.
Required User Interaction
Whenever there is a requirement of end-user time-to-time for accurate development of software.
illustration Requirement
Wherever there is a requirement of illustration of the project at every step which helps clients to understand and helps in changing the software requirements like the format of software, design, etc.
Steps in Prototype Model
Step 1: Requirement Analysis
This phase is the first step in the Prototype model where the requirements of the client are checked.
After taking all the information from a client, the information is written in the SRS document which is used for developing software.
Step 2: Designing
This is the second step in which design according to the customer’s requirement is created in the form of images, video by using designing tools or software to handed over to the development team for the actual implementation.
Step 3: Prototype
In this step, the prototype of software is developed by a quick design and handed over to the customer for its feedback.
Step 4: Customer Evaluation
After the prototype of the software which was handed over to a client for its feedback, the clients check all the features and requirements he needed in his software. He suggests some changes if he needed in them then he informs the company senior members of a change, and if he is satisfied with the prototype design then the company starts the actual development by using programming.
Step 5: Refining Prototype
After the customer evaluation of software, he gives feedback that he needs some changes, then again designing team change according to the requirement of the client and again handed over to the customer for its feedback.
Step 6: Engineer Product
After the satisfaction of the customer with the prototype design, the company starts the development phase in which programmers or coders code the software and develop it fully for submission of software.
Advantages Of Prototype Model
- Finishes in time.
- Customer feedback at an earlier stage.
- Big projects and software are developed.
- Errors are detected easily and removed easily.
- Fully customer satisfaction before the completion of software.
Disadvantages of Prototype Model
- Small projects cost more in this model.
- Change of whole prototype design if the customer is not satisfied with the initial design.
- Lack of interest of designing team with customers requirement if the customer is confused
you can also read these topics:
What is Software Engineering? Why we need Software Engineering?
What is Software Why we need Software?
SDLC(Software Development Life Cycle)