The earlier you test, the easier it is to make changes. That's why our customers are testing early versions of their products, called "prototypes"
What is a prototype?
Prototypes and wireframes are “half-baked” versions of sites or apps.
The links won’t always work
Images may not be in place
and they might contain filler text (like “Lorem Ipsum”).
This means you need to use your imagination when interacting with a prototype or wireframe.
It’s important not to get hung up on the appearance or content you’re looking at, and to focus on what you DO understand about the page, and what you would expect to happen next if you continued down whatever path you are exploring.
6 Tips to score high ratings on prototype tests
If you want to get a high rating on a prototype or wireframe test, do the following things:
#1 Read the instructions very carefully
This applies to all tests. Read every instruction thoroughly, and out loud. Missing even a single word can send you in the wrong direction and reduce the value of your feedback.
#2 Avoid complaining about the design
Unless asked specifically about it. You are probably not looking at the final version of the product, just its skeleton.
#3 Avoid complaining about the links not working
If something doesn’t work the way you expect it to (or doesn’t work at all), just explain what you would expect to see and then move on with the test.
"I don't like this prototype because I can't click on this button" isn’t nearly as helpful as, "If I could click this button, I’d expect to be able to..."
#4 Be patient with clunky or slow prototype
Prototypes may be hosted on slow servers or built with tools like Figma. You may experience slow loading times, odd navigation, or sizing issues.
Do your best to work around these limitations and keep going.
#5 Forgive filler text like »Lorem Ipsum«
Filler text is common in prototypes. Don’t focus on missing or nonsensical copy unless the test specifically asks about content.
#6 Clearly explain what you don’t understand
Avoid vague statements like “This doesn’t make sense.” Instead, explain your thought process:
“I assumed this icon meant ‘save’ because of the checkmark, but now it looks like my changes were deleted.”