Prototypes A Research Method

Introduction Prototype means:- –Simplified program or system that serves as a guide or example for complete program or system Prototypes are constructed because:- –They have some of the characteristics of the complete system, but are simpler to develop Prototypes concentrates on:- –Aspects that need to be studied, and neglects the others

The Role of a Prototype Constructing a prototype does not constitute research as such “It is not the main course, it may be the dessert”

The Role of a Prototype Prototypes may be used in one of the following roles: 1.Proof of concept prototypes –After proposing a new concept or theory, especially a new model, researchers construct a prototype –The idea is to ‘prove’ that the concept can work –Typically a research project will propose a new concept and then argue to show that the concept has merit –It adds little scientific value to the project

The Role of a Prototype Prototypes may be used in one of the following roles: 2. Prototypes for Experimentation –Can be used to determine facts about the prototyped system –Must realistically represent the concerned aspects –A field test is where the prototype is deployed in situations where the actual system is intended to be

The Role of a Prototype Prototypes may be used in one of the following roles: 3. Focussing your mind –When one constructs a model or works with similar conceptual ideas it is often difficult to visualise or conceptualise these abstract ideas –Develop a prototype to help developing the model or concept –Developing a prototype forces one to look at detail that may be overlooked otherwise –Will not add a lot of scientific value

The Role of a Prototype Prototypes may be used in one of the following roles: 4. Exploratory research –In previous cases prototype was intended to aid the research process –To learn lessons from an existing concept

Constructing the Prototype Prototypes differ from production systems as they are suppose to be simple Also have limited lifespan Some issues when constructing prototypes: –Many full-scale software-engineering aspects can be avoided –Rather concentrate on simplicity than efficiency –Major aspects may be left unimplemented

Conclusion Not a primary research method, always used with others An excellent vehicle to demonstrate your research Do not overemphasis prototype – source code hardly important, normally an appendix