Glossary / Lexicon

Deutsch: Prototyp / Español: Prototipo / Português: Protótipo / Français: Prototype / Italiano: Prototipo /

In the context of quality management, a prototype refers to an initial model or sample of a product that is built to test a concept or process. It serves as a tool for exploring ideas, identifying potential issues, and implementing improvements before the final production begins. Prototypes are essential for validating design specifications, functionality, and user interaction, enabling organizations to ensure that the final product meets quality standards and customer expectations.

Description

Prototyping is a key phase in the product development process, allowing for the early detection and correction of design errors, assessment of performance, and verification of customer requirements. It supports a proactive approach to quality management by facilitating iterative development, where feedback is continuously sought and incorporated into the design to enhance product quality and functionality.

Application Areas

• Product Design and Development: Creating prototypes to explore different designs and assess how well they meet the intended functional requirements.
• Usability Testing: Evaluating how end-users interact with the prototype to identify improvements in the user interface and experience.
• Performance Testing: Assessing the prototype under various conditions to ensure it performs as expected and meets safety and quality standards.

Well-Known Examples

• Software Development: Building a software prototype to demonstrate features, test user interfaces, and identify potential issues in early development stages.
• Automotive Industry: Creating full-scale prototypes of new vehicle models to conduct crash tests, aerodynamic assessments, and ensure compliance with safety standards.

Similar Terms or Synonyms

• Mock-up
• Pilot Model
• Sample

Weblinks

• wind-lexikon.de: 'Prototyp' in the wind-lexikon.de (German)
• psychology-lexicon.com: 'Prototype' in the psychology-lexicon.com

Summary

In quality management, a prototype is a preliminary version of a product used to test and refine design concepts. It is a crucial element in the product development cycle, allowing for the early identification and resolution of potential issues, ensuring that the final product meets the required quality standards and fulfills customer expectations. Prototyping promotes an iterative approach to development, where continuous feedback and testing lead to product improvements and innovation.

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