Prototype
A prototype is an early version or model of a website or app that shows how it will look and work before it's fully built. Think of it like a rough draft or blueprint that designers create to test ideas and get feedback. Prototypes can range from simple sketches on paper to clickable digital versions that feel like real websites. This helps teams save time and money by catching problems early and making sure everyone agrees on the design direction. When you see this term in resumes, it usually means the person has experience in creating these preliminary versions of websites or apps using tools like Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch.
Examples in Resumes
Created prototype designs for e-commerce website that increased user engagement by 40%
Developed interactive prototypes for mobile banking app using Figma
Led client presentations of prototype designs and gathered feedback for improvements
Built rapid prototypes to test new feature concepts before development
Typical job title: "UI/UX Designers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find UI/UX Designers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Learning Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you decide what level of prototype fidelity is appropriate for different project stages?
Expected Answer: A senior designer should explain how they choose between quick sketches, wireframes, or high-fidelity prototypes based on project needs, timeline, and budget. They should mention how they involve stakeholders in this decision.
Q: Tell me about a time when prototype testing revealed a major design flaw. How did you handle it?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that show how they use prototypes to identify problems early, communicate with teams, and adjust designs based on real user feedback.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What tools do you use for prototyping and why?
Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss different prototyping tools (like Figma, Adobe XD, or Sketch) and explain when they use each one based on project needs.
Q: How do you gather and incorporate feedback on prototypes?
Expected Answer: Should explain their process for presenting prototypes, collecting feedback from different stakeholders, and how they use this information to improve designs.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between low-fidelity and high-fidelity prototypes?
Expected Answer: Should explain that low-fidelity prototypes are basic sketches or wireframes, while high-fidelity prototypes look and behave more like the final product.
Q: Why is prototyping important in the design process?
Expected Answer: Should mention that prototypes help test ideas quickly, get feedback early, and avoid expensive mistakes before full development.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Creating basic wireframes and mockups
- Using common design tools like Figma or Sketch
- Understanding user interface basics
- Making simple clickable prototypes
Mid (2-5 years)
- Building interactive prototypes
- Conducting user testing sessions
- Creating design systems
- Managing feedback from multiple stakeholders
Senior (5+ years)
- Leading design strategy
- Managing complex prototype projects
- Training junior designers
- Presenting to executive stakeholders
Red Flags to Watch For
- No portfolio of previous prototype work
- Unfamiliarity with common prototyping tools
- Lack of user testing experience
- Unable to explain design decisions
