[Sigia-l] rapid prototyping by business managers

[Pradyot Rai]

> What he is calling a prototype may actually just be a
> conceptual model. I have worked with clients who have
> put together "prototype screens" (hand-drawn & with
> visio) to demonstrate the functionality of a desired
> system, but we correctly relabeled these to conceptual
> models to ensure that there were no expectations that
> the screens would actually look like what they had
> created.

Very true. Mostly the conceptual models are better defined by Business
perspective on the lead role and they often wish to be closer to the
'prototypes' and often get carried away in the 'design' paradigm. In my
expereince, 'Business concept modelling' and 'UI designs' are separate
activities and needs different mind set. However, most of the time during
the first release of the product they get almost blurred and inseparable.

The best approach is to make the business people your guest. Allow them to
'prototpe' or what ever they wish. Suggest them the tools and
methodologies. Tell them how can they use simple tools such as 'visio' or
'powerpoint' to prototype. Help them at every instance where they stumble.
If they get frustrated while prototyping, help them define 'each tasks'
one at a time and proceed with prototype. This is the only way they will
understand what the fine line is between 'requirement analysis/management'
and 'UI design'. This is the only way to follow them and build the trust.
Unless, they themself get in the water, they won't know what it takes to
swim.

Pradyot Rai