Paper prototyping involves creating throwaway prototypes using paper to translate user stories and use cases into visual specifications. It saves time and money compared to digital prototypes as paper prototypes can be created quickly and inexpensively. Paper prototyping should be used during brainstorming, to clear up misunderstandings, before major design efforts, and for rapid prototyping and testing ideas through usability tests prior to implementing changes. Examples of paper prototyping include simple drafts, wireframe layouts, use case visualizations, and interaction storyboards.

1. Paper Prototyping
TLU-HCI Summer School 2013
Valeria Gasik, Zahhar Kirillov, Daria Tokranova

2. Throwaway prototypes,
which translate user
stories and use cases into
visual specifications.

3. Why to use?
Saves € / £ / ¥
Fast
Disposable

4. When to use?
e.g.
• During brainstorming and discussion
• To clear out misunderstandings
• Before making significant design efforts
• Rapid prototyping and testing
• Prior making changes based on usability tests

5. Few examples...

6. Simple drafts

7. Simple wireframe layout

8. Using notebook as a grid

9. Use case visualization

10. Interaction storyboard as an animation
(gif, PDF, photo gallery...)

11. Stencils
Frames
Post-it notes
http://www.tripwiremagazine.com/2012/07/free-printable-sketching-wireframing-templates.html
http://wireframes.linowski.ca/2009/11/paper-prototype-cutouts/

12. Also
e.g.
• As state-transition diagrams
• Really useful for quick usability testing