This session explains how prototyping can be the heart of a virtuous cycle during preproduction. The cycle is illustrated with concrete examples and numerous prototypes from Spores preproduction phase.

Why prototype in a virtuous cycle? First, prototypes create clear, often surprising, design progress. Second, the sense of rapid forward progress motivates developers to exceed already high expectations. Third, regular demos expand the teams ability to think critically about design, and raise the bar for future prototypes. Pitfalls and points where the cycle can be disrupted are highlighted for each step.