Paper prototyping is the method of creating low-fidelity, hand-sketched, or hand-drawn models for a product or service. It is used to test designs and visualize concepts before the implementation process.
It allows UI designers to quickly sketch wireframes and build mockups based on feedback without using complex digital tools and software. It also allows the designers to experiment with screens, foster collaboration, and drive innovation.
Not to be confused with
Digital prototyping
It refers to creating digital versions or models of products or services in a digital environment.
Uses of Paper Prototyping in UI UX Design
Here are some key applications of paper prototyping in UI UX design,
- Visualizing User Experience – It helps in visualizing the user journey before the UX design process begins and ensures the flow is efficient.
- Usability Testing – Paper prototyping tests how people interact with the website or user interface before they are developed and designed.
- Easy to Communicate Ideas – It is much easier to communicate ideas and changes between designers, developers, and stakeholders, through paper sketches.
- Collecting Feedback – It allows designers to gather suggestions and feedback and further enhance and improve the design.
- Cost-Effective – It is less costly, allowing designers to easily identify issues before investments are made in development.
How To Do Paper Prototyping
Paper prototyping involves these three basic steps:
- Gather Materials – Collect pens, paper, markers, sticky notes, and any other material needed. You can also use large sheets or whiteboards to design multiple screens.
- Sketch Interfaces – Start by designing basic screens, as well as sketching interfaces and key elements on the paper. Arrange them in sequence to create a user flow. Feel free to add or remove screens to improve the user experience.
- Simulate Interaction – Organize the screens in sequential order as per the user flows and how users will interact with them.
Note: All information and/or data from external sources is believed to be accurate as of the date of publication.