Looks Like/Works Like

What is this method about?

A prototyping activity in which two distinctly different prototypes are created: one to explore functionality (works like) and the other to explore appearance (looks like). The prototypes are tested with potential users to help identify customer responses and preferences.

Why use it

This activity reveals whether functions and features work or are presented as the customer wants/expects—providing design and development teams with quick validation (or invalidation) of ideas and assumptions. In addition, the activity’s separation of function and form allows designers to be more creative in their explorations and allows developers to be more focused on functional and technical solutions. This prototyping can also be useful for quickly demonstrating functional or creative work to key stakeholders.

When should I use it?

During design and development of a new product or service. The prototypes are particularly useful at the start of the product design process, when the organization has an idea and requirement to offer a new product for a particular audience.

What you get

Design and development teams will have a better understanding of how a fully designed version should work, look and feel. The activity will generate valuable, direct-from-users insights and feedback. Stakeholders will better understand what’s required to fully meet the target audiences’ needs. Results of the activity will be used to take the process a step further with combined prototyping and product pilots.

At a glance

• Time: Long
• Effort: Medium
• Cost: Medium

Materials

• Development skills and/or prototyping software
• Scamps or low fidelity designs
• Testing facilities

Who is involved

• Product Manager
• Developer
• Product Designer
• Visual Designer
• Users (Test participants)
• Test Facilitator