What is prototyping in the context of application development?

Prototyping in the context of application development refers to an iterative approach that focuses on creating a working model of an application. This method allows developers and stakeholders to visualize and interact with a preliminary version of the application, facilitating feedback and refinements before full-scale implementation. By creating a prototype, developers can quickly demonstrate concepts and explore design options, making adjustments based on user input and requirements.

This approach is particularly valuable in custom application development, where user specifications may evolve throughout the project lifecycle. It enhances communication between stakeholders and the development team, reduces misunderstandings, and significantly decreases the risk of major flaws in the final product. Prototyping can encompass various techniques, including low-fidelity sketches or high-fidelity interactive models, all aimed at ensuring that the end result aligns with user needs and expectations.