Paper Prototypes

Paper prototypes are quick, low-fidelity sketches of a product or service that help teams visualize and test ideas early in the design process.

They enable designers to map out functionality, flows, and layouts without requiring significant time or resources to be invested in digital tools.

Paper prototyping prompts questions like:

• How would a user interact with this feature?
• What steps are needed to complete a task?
• Where might confusion or friction arise?

These rough drafts serve as powerful conversation starters, helping teams identify flaws, clarify goals, and co-design improvements with users.

Best Practices

Keep it rough and ready. Focus on function over beauty.

Have supplies ready. Use markers, sticky notes, and index cards to stay flexible.

Use labels. Ensure your labels are clear and consistent.

Conduct a live experiment. Walk through use cases with users and observe their reactions.

Don’t over-explain. Let the paper do the talking!

Basic Steps

1. Identify a user flow or feature. Think about a task a user needs to accomplish or a moment of interaction.

2. Sketch individual screens or steps. Break the task into key actions or touchpoints and draw each one.

3. Lay them out in sequence. Arrange the sketches in the order a user would move through them.

4. Walk users through scenarios using the prototype. Simulate the interaction and observe how users respond. 

5. Capture feedback and adjust as needed. Note questions, confusions, and suggestions to refine your prototype.

Benefits

• Fast and low-cost to produce, making various projects more attainable
• Encourages feedback early and often, fostering collaboration and improvement
• Reduces risk before building expensive solutions, ensuring efficiency
• Makes ideas tangible for all stakeholders, enhancing understanding and alignment