Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages of prototyping

• Prototypes can be easily changed
• May provide the proof of concept necessary to attract funding
• Early visibility of the prototype gives users an idea of what the final system looks like
• Encourages active participation among users and producer
• Enables a higher output for user
• Cost effective (Development costs reduced)
• Increases system development speed

Disadvantages of prototyping

• User’s expectation on prototype may be above its performance
• Possibility of causing systems to be left unfinished
• Possibility of implementing systems before they are ready.
• Producer might produce a system inadequate for overall organization needs
• Producer might get too attached to it (might cause legal involvement)
• Often lack flexibility
• Not suitable for large applications
• Project management difficulties