There are four main classifications of prototypes: rapid prototyping, functional, throwaway, and evolutionary. Rapid prototyping is used to quickly produce a working model of a new product or service. Functional prototypes are used to test specific functions or features of a design. Throwaway prototypes are created with the intention of being discarded after use; they are often used in Market Research. Evolutionary prototypes are developed iteratively, with each successive version incorporating feedback from users. Ultimately, the goal is to create a prototype that closely resembles the final product. The type of prototype will be determined by the needs of the project.
