Ulrich Concept Development Process

Ulrich Definition of Prototype Physical Mock-ups Breadboards Look-and-feel models A prototype is an approximation of the final product (and process) along the following four dimensions Analytical Equations spreadsheets Simulations Computer files Comprehensive Implements all product functions Alpha, beta prototypes Pre-production prototypes Focused Implements subset of product functions Mock-ups, Screen-shots

Ulrich Classification of Prototypes focusedcomprehensive physical analytical Typically, not feasible

Ulrich Many comprehensive prototypes built. Examples: Software, consumer products Analytical prototypes used extensively. Carefully planned comprehensive prototypes. Combination of different prototypes Examples: Airplane, satellites, automobiles One prototype may be built for verification. Examples: Printed goods Few or no comprehensive prototypes built. Examples: Commercial buildings, ships LowHigh Cost of Comprehensive Prototype (Time or Money) High Low Technical or Market Risk Different Contexts Require Different Prototyping Approaches

Ulrich Four Motives for Building Prototypes LearningCommunicationMilestonesIntegration Prototype Technical Uncertainty Market Uncertainty Provide high-bandwidth, Visual and tactile Information to: Top management Vendors / partners Investors Internal team Bring different elements Of the decomposed System together Evaluate interfaces Enforce coordination Find out about interdependencies “Reality check” Tangible goals Forcing functionality Demonstration of progress

Ulrich