47. How to make a prototype for your product (Part 1)

The prototyping process is the first step in the product development journey. To go from idea to live app, site or algorithm, you need to test it with target users. A good prototype can get you funding, but more importantly, it can show you whether the concept is worth pursuing in the first place. One of the biggest mistakes non-technical founders make is hiring developers before they have a tested prototype. Listen to this episode and avoid this costly mistake.   Learning notes from this episode: The prototype serves as an illustration of your product: it looks and feels like an app / site, but you don't need to write code to make it. Algorithms in their simplest form can be tested using a spreadsheet. The design process consists of 4 phases: discover, define, develop and deliver To make a prototype, start with research: "Design is not just about how to build a solution, but whether a problem needs solving in the first place. Before working on prototypes and wire frames, find a market need." Jane Austin, Chief Design Officer at Flo Health   To get the learning notes and resources Sophia mentions in the podcast, enter your email here. ... Do you have a brilliant app idea and no tech knowledge to build it? Get your FREE guide here. To go deeper, join the Tech for Non-Techies membership community. As a community member, you'll get: Weekly live masterclasses with global experts Mini-course on how to go from idea to live app Supportive Online Community Library of masterclasses Monthly live coaching with Sophia Matveeva, tech entrepreneur & Chicago Booth MBA Exclusive Resources & Perks Learn more and sign up at https://www.techfornontechies.co/membership   Say hi to Sophia on Twitter. Following us on Facebook and Instagram will make you smarter.