DataPalooza 2022

Prototype a process or product A definition of prototyping is “a way to figure out the details by designing a product, service, or system and learning what works and — perhaps more importantly — what doesn’t work (Luminary Labs).” A simpler definition is: build something to learn something. People use the terms prototype, proof-of-concept, and Minimum Viable Product (MVP) in a variety of ways. But the key idea is putting innovation into action by making or doing something tangible. Prototypes allow you to get an idea off paper and into practice. A prototype’s “fidelity” is how realistic you make it. A low-fidelity prototype of a new report might be a sketch on paper. A high-fidelity prototype of a process might be a formal walk-through with people playing roles of the different participants. Good when you want to: Test out an idea See what roadblocks occur during implementation Effort involved: from low (for low-fidelity prototype) to high (for working software or program) Resources https://www.luminary-labs.com/insight/on-prototyping-and-piloting/ https://sceweb.uhcl.edu/helm/RationalUnifiedProcess/process/workflow/manageme/co_proto.htm Perform a user pilot The key element in a pilot is users. Piloting is a method of putting products in front of real people and gathering feedback over a period. In its most formal sense, it can be used as a final step prior to rolling out a completed product or process. In a more informal way, it can be a chance to get some initial feedback on an incomplete product or process. The pilot should be time-boxed and have agreed upon rules of engagement, including how feedback will be used. Good when you want to: Refine your documentation or communication prior to making a change for all users. Choose between multiple possible options that you are considering. Get feedback from users to see if something is helpful or useful. Determine how much effort is involved in a new idea and if the benefits outweigh the costs. Effort involved: Medium-to-high. Gathering participants and arranging to get feedback from them and setting up an area to run the pilot can be time consuming.

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