How to make a prototype of your

idea without spending a fortune

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How to make a prototype of your
idea without spending a fortune
Reading time 15 mins

Key Points

Prototyping is a crucial step in product development and the design thinking

methodology, leading to better-designed products that resonate with user
needs
A prototype is simply an early version of a product from which final versions
are built. It’s a dynamic process that allows you to test assumptions, gather
feedback, and make informed decisions.
Common pitfalls when developing a prototype include a lack of clearly defined
objectives, overcomplicating and/or rushing the process, and failing to get
user feedback
5 ways to make a prototype: Sketch your design on paper, use digital/online
prototyping tools or software, use 3D printing, build a minimum viable
product, or outsource to experts.
Remember that when you make a prototype, the goal is progress – not
perfection.
By keeping an open mind, involving your target audience, and continuously
refining your prototype, you can increase the chances of turning your
innovative idea into a successful reality.

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Ben Mazur

Managing Director

Last updated Oct 5, 2023

I hope you enjoy reading this post.

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If you’re starting a business and developing products for the first time, figuring out how to make a
prototype can seem super technical, really intimidating, and very expensive – especially if you don’t
have a background in design. But have you realised that you’ve probably already prototyped before?
If you’ve ever created a spreadsheet for a collaborative project with your team and then tweaked it
based on their feedback or changed the format of a presentation because your colleagues said it was
hard to follow, that was prototyping!

A prototype is simply an early version of a product from which final versions are built. It can be as
basic as a sketch and storyboard on paper or as complex as a 3D printed object or a market-ready
minimum viable product. If you’re feeling stuck about the type of prototype you need, give us a call.
Our full spectrum prototyping services have you covered, and we’ll be able to deliver precisely what
you need quickly, efficiently, and affordably.

Prototyping is a crucial step in product development and the design thinking methodology (read our
guide to learn more) that leads to better products that resonate with user needs. In this post, we’ll
explore cost-effective strategies and tools to make a prototype and bring your product idea to life
without spending a fortune or breaking the budget.

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The a-z guide to creating impactful minimum viable products

How to do a patent search to check if your idea is original

Prototyping pitfalls that could doom

your product’s success
Entrepreneurs often make several mistakes when they first create a prototype of their idea – thus
hindering the development and success of their product. Here are some of the biggest pitfalls to
avoid:

Lack of clear objectives: With a specific goal in mind, it’s easier to maintain direction – ending up
with a focused prototype. Define clear objectives for your prototype from the beginning. Ask yourself
questions such as:

Which specific aspects of this idea/solution do I want to test?

Who is my target audience?
What proof of concept (i.e. evidence that this is the solution customers need) do I have?
What are the essential features or functionalities to include?
What’s my budget?

Rushing the process: One common mistake is rushing the prototype development process,
especially if you’re eager to bring your idea to life quickly. This can lead to a poorly designed or non-
functional prototype, so don’t be afraid to seek advice if you need it.

Overcomplicating the prototype: Avoid including too many features in your initial prototype – this
will make it overly complex and costly to develop. Start with a basic version to test the core concept
before adding more features.

Neglecting user feedback: Failing to gather feedback from potential users is a significant mistake.
Prototypes should be used for testing and validating assumptions; user feedback is essential to
making this happen.

Ignoring cost constraints: Have a budget and stick to it to avoid overlooking cost constraints when
building your prototype. Creating a cost-effective prototype that doesn’t drain resources that could be
better used elsewhere is essential.
Not focusing on the minimum viable product (MVP): Instead of building a full-featured
prototype, you should prioritise creating an impactful minimum viable product (MVP) – download our
a-z guide here. An MVP is a simplified version that demonstrates the core value of your idea, allowing
for faster testing, iteration, and user/customer feedback.

Failure to test assumptions: Remember that prototypes are used to test assumptions about the
market, user needs, and the idea’s viability. What is the hypothesis you’re trying to validate?

Not involving the right team: Building a prototype is a collaborative effort. Don’t try to do
everything yourself – ask experts for assistance if your team members don’t have the necessary skills.

Skipping the competitive analysis: Neglecting to research and analyse competitors can lead to a
prototype that doesn’t address existing market gaps or offer a unique value proposition.

Unrealistic expectations: Don’t expect your prototype to be perfect. It’s important to remember
that prototypes are meant for learning and iteration.

Neglecting legal and intellectual property considerations: First, protect your intellectual
property. Please address legal and IP issues early on to avoid problems later. Check out our post on
how to check the originality of your idea.

Not having a backup plan: Be prepared for the possibility that your initial prototype won’t work as
expected. Having a backup plan and being open to pivot if necessary is crucial.

Avoiding these common mistakes and approaching the prototype development process with careful
planning, clear goals, and a focus on user feedback can significantly increase your chances of
success. Book a free consultation with an expert on our team to advise you on the services we
provide to leapfrog the pitfalls.

Top 5 ways to make a prototype

1. Paper prototyping: Paper prototyping involves sketching your design on paper or using physical
objects to represent various components of your product.

Advantages:

Low cost: Requires only paper and basic drawing materials.

Rapid iteration: Quick and easy to make changes or updates.
User-centred: Great for early-stage user testing and feedback.

Disadvantages:

Limited interactivity: Cannot simulate complex interactions or functionalities.

Simplicity: Best suited for basic designs and interfaces.

2. Digital prototyping with prototyping tools: Using specialised software tools like Figma,
Sketch, or Adobe XD to create interactive digital prototypes of your product.
Advantages:

Interactivity: Can create clickable, interactive prototypes.

Collaboration: Facilitates team collaboration and sharing of design files.
Realistic Design: Closely resembles the final product’s appearance.

Disadvantages:

Learning curve: Some tools may require a learning curve that can be time-intensive.
Cost: While many tools offer free plans, some advanced features may require a
subscription.

3. 3D printing for physical prototypes: Utilising 3D printing technology to create physical

prototypes of products, especially relevant for mechanical or industrial design projects. Ignitec uses
the latest in 3D printing technology – taking freedom of design to a whole new level.

Advantages:

Precision: Offers a high level of detail and accuracy.

Customisation: Ability to create complex physical prototypes.
Materials variety: Options for various materials and finishes.

Disadvantages:

Equipment cost: Professional-grade 3D printers can be expensive.

Limited size: Constrained by the printer’s build volume.
Post-processing: Some prints may require post-processing, adding time and effort.

4. Lean prototyping focuses on building a minimal viable product (MVP) with only essential features to
validate core assumptions and gather user feedback.

Advantages:

Efficiency: Reduces development time and cost by concentrating on the most critical
features.
Quick validation: Allows for rapid validation of key assumptions.
Iterative: Encourages ongoing refinement based on user feedback.

Disadvantages:

Risk of oversimplification: May overlook important features if not carefully considered.

Limited user experience: Might not provide a complete user experience.

5. Outsourcing to professionals or freelancers: Hiring experienced professionals or freelancers

to create a prototype based on your specifications.
Advantages:

Expertise: Access to specialised skills and expertise.

Time-saving: Faster development compared to learning new skills yourself.
Quality: High-quality prototypes based on professional standards.

Disadvantages:

Cost: Hiring professionals can be expensive.

Communication challenges: Remote collaboration may introduce communication
barriers.
Dependency: You may have limited control if you rely on external expertise.

The choice of prototyping method depends on your project’s specific needs, budget, and goals. Often,
a combination of these methods may be used at different stages of product development to maximise
their respective advantages while mitigating their disadvantages. Consider your project’s
requirements and the type of feedback you need to collect when deciding how you want to make a
prototype based on the most appropriate method.

Final thoughts on prototyping

In business, entrepreneurship and innovation, prototyping is a powerful tool that can turn your ideas
into reality and pave the way for success.

Prototyping is not just about creating a physical or digital representation of your idea; it’s about a
mindset of learning and adaptation. It’s a dynamic process that allows you to test assumptions,
gather feedback, and make informed decisions. Embrace the iterative nature of prototyping, and
don’t be afraid to fail forward. Every iteration, every mistake, and every pivot brings you closer to a
refined and viable solution.

Remember that when you make a prototype, the goal is progress – not perfection. It’s a means to
explore possibilities, identify problems, and discover opportunities. By keeping an open mind,
involving your target audience, and continuously refining your prototype, you can increase the
chances of turning your innovative idea into a successful reality.

Be creative. Be resilient. Use your prototype as a stepping stone on your product development
journey. And share this post if you found it helpful!

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FAQ’s

How do I make a cost-effective prototype for my invention idea?

To create a cost-effective prototype for your invention, start with a simple design using readily
available materials. Consider 3D printing, low-cost electronics, and online prototyping services to save
on expenses.

What are some cost-effective materials for prototyping?

Affordable materials for prototyping include cardboard, foam board, PVC pipes, clay, or even recycled
items like old electronics or packaging materials. Choose materials that match the characteristics you
need for your prototype.

Can I use free software for designing my prototype?

Yes, you can use free software like Tinkercad, SketchUp, or Fusion 360 for 3D modelling and design.
These tools are suitable for creating virtual prototypes before physical construction.

How can I reduce labour costs when making a prototype?

Reduce labour costs by doing the prototyping work yourself or involving team members. Consider
outsourcing only specific tasks that require specialised skills.

What are some cost-effective tools for prototyping?

Inexpensive prototyping tools include basic hand tools like saws, drills, and soldering irons. Look for
secondhand tools or consider renting if you only need them temporarily.
How can I validate my prototype without spending too much?

Validate your prototype on a budget by conducting user testing and gathering feedback early in the
process. Use low-cost surveys and digital platforms to reach potential users.

Are there affordable 3D printing options for prototyping?

Yes, there are affordable 3D printers available in the market. Look for entry-level models and consider
using open-source 3D printing software and materials to save costs.

What's the best way to source affordable electronic components

for a prototype?

You can find cost-effective electronic components on websites like Digi-Key, Mouser, or AliExpress.
Consider buying in bulk or using off-the-shelf modules to save money.

Can I use recycled materials for my prototype?

Absolutely! Recycled materials like old circuit boards, plastic containers, or metal scraps can be
repurposed for your prototype. It’s an eco-friendly and budget-friendly option.

How can I find low-cost prototyping workshops or maker spaces?

Search for local maker spaces, universities, or community centres offering affordable prototyping
tools and equipment. Some may provide memberships with reduced rates for startups.

Are there grants or funding options for prototyping?

Yes, look for grants, competitions, or startup incubator programs that provide funding or resources for
prototype development. Many organisations support innovative ideas.
Can I collaborate with others to reduce prototype costs?

Collaborating with other entrepreneurs, engineers, or designers can help distribute the costs and
expertise needed for prototyping, making it more cost-effective.

How do I choose the suitable prototyping method to save money?

Consider the specific needs of your project. If a virtual prototype suffices, it’s often cheaper than
physical prototyping. However, physical prototypes may be necessary for hardware or tangible
products.

What are some tips for budget-friendly 3D printing?

To save on 3D printing costs, optimise your 3D models to use less material, choose lower-cost printing
filaments, and explore online 3D printing services with competitive pricing.

Can I reuse parts from old devices for my prototype?

Recycling components from old devices or electronics can be a cost-effective way to source specific
parts for your prototype, reducing overall expenses.

How can I estimate the overall cost of my prototype project?

Create a detailed budget by listing all materials, tools, and services needed. Factor in shipping costs,
taxes, and contingencies. Be realistic about your financial resources.

Are there low-cost alternatives to CNC machining for prototyping?

Yes, alternatives like laser cutting, waterjet cutting, or manual machining can be cost-effective
options for creating precise parts without the high expenses of CNC machining.
How do I negotiate with suppliers to lower prototype component
costs?

When negotiating with suppliers, buy in bulk, ask for discounts on larger orders, and explore the
possibility of establishing long-term relationships for cost savings.

What role does 3D scanning play in cost-effective prototyping?

3D scanning can save costs by allowing you to replicate existing objects or components accurately. It
eliminates the need for manual measurements and design work.

Should I consider crowdfunding for prototype funding?

Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo can be viable options to raise funds for your
prototype. However, it requires effective marketing and a compelling campaign to attract backers. Be
prepared to deliver on your promises if you reach your funding goal.

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