Shared understanding of project requirements: The use of prototypes

Research has shown that one of main factors that cause project failures include lack of shared understanding of project requirements. The customer may want in one way and the project manager will deliver it in a different way

A clear shared vision or shared understanding will ensure both customer and project manager will be viewing the deliverables through the same lens (same specifications, same features, same details, etc.)

One important tool used when defining project requirements is the use of a prototype

A prototype can be a simulation like house CAD design that presents how the product will actually look like when produced. The customer can touch it, feel it, or see the product by examining the prototype

As an example, I once visited a furniture maker to get a wooden bed. I signed a contract with the manufacture to get the product according to my requirements. I asked him to show me pictures of an already made bed, or a sample bed, so that I will visualize how my bed would look like.

A wooden bed prototype in picture form

This is an example of a prototype. A prototype is one of the most important tools used in requirement collection phase of any project. It helps make things clear and prevents a rework, replacements, and over spending

To learn more about project management and practical project management, get a copy of our latest book from the link below

Jama, A. .A. (2022). Practical project management: With Microsoft project illustration. Somalia: Pure Training Centre. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09QGVRKY3