The purpose of this is that it can be done quickly so user feedback can be received before too much time is put into the design, in the case that design direction must be changed. At this point in the process, you should not be trying to create the perfect solution. It is a quick process that can be done with any materials.

Rapid prototype

The purpose of this type of prototype is to learn from a simulation of the experience. It is an early version of the finished prototype used to show the product’s function and purpose behind why it's built.  


Working prototype

 Ready to be put into production. The finalized version as a result from the rapid and working prototype.  


Finished prototype

Prototyping refers to a process in which a product or system is built. There are three types of prototyping: rapid, working, and finished prototype.

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IDEO uses their design process to solve human centered problems with creative solutions that directly addresses user needs. Their design process is a never-ending cycle of improvements
- Observation
- Ideation
- Prototyping
- User feedback
- Iteration
- Implementation

IDEO Human-Centered Design Process

Karl Aspelund, Designing: An Introduction (Fairchild Books, 2014).


Designing: An Introduction

Observation is the first step of the IDEO design process. This is an attempt to understand the users through things such as behavior, pain points, and other experiences. Designers should be open to all creative opportunities. 

Observation in IDEO

A simple prototype is created through the rapid prototyping phase of the process and receives feedback from the target users. This is highly important for user centered design. Without the user, it is just design.

User Feedback in IDEO

Using the feedback received in the last phase of the IDEO process, make changes to your original rapid prototype. This phase should be repeated more than once in order to produce the best design and the designers should return to the user feedback phase after each iteration. Once the design feels fine-tuned, it is time to move on to the next phase. 

Iteration in IDEO

Once the design has been finalized, it can be finally implemented into the product. After implementation, designers should again begin to observe users and restart the entire process once new points or ideas come to the forefront. Remember that the focus should always be on user needs. 

Implementation in IDEO

- IDEO Human-Centered Design Process
- Designing 

IDEO Human-Centered Design Process References

Ideation involves determining solutions to user problems that were discovered during the observation phase of the process. Designers should focus on the needs and desires of users in order to best address these points. 

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