Prototype Market Testing

During the product development (PD) process, it is important to test out new iterations of the product design to verify the right fit and functionality. Later on in the process, we are then able to determine whether the design requires additional improvements and enhancements before it proceeds to production. While some companies offer virtual testing environments that analyze how products perform with regard to typical use conditions, environmental circumstances, and user error, obtaining and testing physical representations of a product (i.e., a prototype) remains a vital part of the PD process. Having a physical model allows product designers and developers to test out how the product feels and functions in real-world conditions, which can reveal issues that may not be apparent in a virtual test environment.

Optimizing the Product Design for Prototype Testing

As the product development process moves from the engineering stage to the prototyping and testing stage, it is essential to thoroughly understand the difference between a prototype and a product build. Prototyping involves creating functional models that test users can try out so they can provide feedback about usability. The insights supplied by users allows you to make necessary changes to a design before investing in the full product build.

When designing a prototype, focus on the specific characteristics and functions you want to test. Additionally, it is important to have a clear understanding of what you expect to learn from the testing stage.

Alpha vs. Beta Testing

The term “market testing” refers to the process of testing how well a product or service performs among the target audience. This phase of the product development process involves two primary testing methodologies: alpha testing and beta testing.

Alpha Testing

Alpha testing is performed on-site by internal employees of the company developing the product. It is used to identify functional and operational issues that could become a problem down the line. It does not involve an in-depth review of product reliability and security.

This testing phase can employ both white box and black box testing methods, so that test users can review a product with or without working knowledge of the system. Compared to other testing phases, this phase may take longer. However, this is necessary as alpha testing serves as a means of identifying issues that may have been missed earlier in the design process.

Beta Testing

Beta testing is conducted by users and customers who are not associated with the product development company. Testing occurs at the end-users’ location and involves only black-box testing, so testers do not have insight into the system’s inner workings. This testing phase focuses on the product’s reliability and security, with patches released as new issues are identified. Unlike alpha testing, beta testing requires only a few months to complete.

Tips for Successful Prototype Testing Operations

When organizing prototype testing operations, there are many factors to keep in mind to ensure they proceed successfully. Some of the key considerations include:

Moderated vs. Non-Moderated Sessions

Prototyping testing operations can be moderated or non-moderated. Both methods offer unique advantages and disadvantages.

• Moderated test sessions allow you to be directly involved during the testing process, so you can assist testers or rearrange tasks as necessary. While you have more control over these tests, you are at risk of affecting their results if you help participants too much.
• Non-moderated test sessions allow testing to be completed by testers with minimal involvement from you. This method enables you to get more accurate results but also makes it more challenging to contact participants with follow-up questions. You can, however, make changes during the testing process in some non-moderated sessions and gauge the results.

Pilot Testing

If you are new to product testing, it is a good idea to perform a pilot test so you can get a feel for whether your market testing participants will have any problems. Pilot testing involves having someone within the company go over the test. If they have questions or seem confused, it is a good sign that your testers will find the test steps difficult to follow.