What is the function of a prototype in product design?

A prototype in product design plays a crucial role as a preliminary model that is used primarily to test and evaluate its design. This stage in the design process allows designers to assess the functionality, ergonomics, and overall feasibility of an idea before moving forward into production. Prototypes can be built using various materials, ranging from low-fidelity mock-ups to high-fidelity representations that closely resemble the final product.

The evaluation of prototypes helps identify any design flaws, usability issues, or areas for improvement, enabling designers to refine their concepts iteratively. This form of testing can involve user feedback, which is invaluable for ensuring that the final product meets user needs and expectations.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately reflect the primary role of a prototype. While the final product solution is indeed the end goal, the prototype itself does not serve this purpose but rather aids in achieving it through testing and iteration. Outlining marketing strategies is a distinct aspect of product development that typically occurs after a prototype has been developed. Additionally, while CAD software is a powerful tool in design, it does not get replaced by prototypes; they serve different functions within the design process.