The following remark was overheard at a meeting between managers and a systems analysis team at the Fence-Me-In fencing company: “You told us the prototype would be finished three weeks ago. We’re still waiting for it!”

Question

a. In a paragraph, comment on the importance of rapid delivery of a portion of a prototyped information system.

b. List three elements of the prototyping process that must be controlled to ensure prompt delivery of the prototype.

c. What are some elements of the prototyping process that are difficult to manage? List them.

Answer 1

a. Rapid delivery of the prototype is an essential feature of the development strategy. Rapid delivery ensures rapid incorporation of evolving user needs. Furthermore, rapid delivery strengthens the psychological contract between analysts and users. Without rapid delivery, users remain “fenced in” to the shortcomings of traditional development strategy.

b. To ensure prompt delivery of the prototype, it should be decomposed into manageable modules; interaction with users must be maintained; and modifications of the prototype must be controlled.

c. Several elements are difficult to control in prototyping. These elements are associated with managing the prototype as part of a larger systems development effort. They include: (a) the tendency to extend prototype development indefinitely (or conversely, to accept the prototype as a finished system), and (b) managing feedback—collecting it periodically, analyzing it, interpreting it, and using it.