Glossaries
Lo Fidelity Prototype
What is a Lo Fidelity Prototype?
A lo fidelity prototype is a simple, rough representation of a product or design concept used in the early stages of user research and design to quickly test ideas and gather feedback.
Synonyms: Low fidelity prototype, Lo-fi prototype, Rough prototype, Quick prototype, Concept prototype
Why Lo Fidelity Prototypes are Important
Lo fidelity prototypes play a crucial role in the user research and design process. They allow designers and researchers to:
- Quickly visualize and test ideas without investing significant time or resources
- Gather early feedback from users and stakeholders
- Identify potential usability issues and design flaws early in the process
- Encourage creativity and experimentation without the constraints of polished designs
How Lo Fidelity Prototypes are Used
Lo fidelity prototypes are typically used in the following ways:
- Concept validation: Testing initial ideas and concepts with users
- User flow exploration: Mapping out basic user journeys and interactions
- Stakeholder communication: Presenting early-stage ideas to team members and clients
- Rapid iteration: Quickly refining designs based on feedback
These prototypes can take various forms, such as paper sketches, simple wireframes, or basic digital mockups.
Examples of Lo Fidelity Prototypes
Some common examples of lo fidelity prototypes include:
- Paper sketches: Hand-drawn representations of screens or interfaces
- Wireframes: Basic digital outlines of page layouts and content placement
- Storyboards: Sequential sketches illustrating user flows or scenarios
- Card sorting: Using index cards to organize and categorize information architecture
Frequently Asked Questions
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What's the difference between lo fidelity and hi fidelity prototypes?: Lo fidelity prototypes are simple and rough, focusing on basic concepts and layouts. Hi fidelity prototypes are more detailed and polished, often including interactive elements and visual design.
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How long does it take to create a lo fidelity prototype?: Lo fidelity prototypes can be created quickly, often in a matter of minutes or hours, depending on the complexity of the concept.
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Can lo fidelity prototypes be used for user testing?: Yes, lo fidelity prototypes are excellent for early-stage user testing, allowing researchers to gather valuable feedback on concepts and basic usability.