The Alpha prototype is an approximation of the desired final product. Typically, it looks like and works like the final product but it has been assembled in such a way to allow for a fast iteration, using easy to obtain or create parts, and with minimal considerations for manufacturability. The Alpha prototype focuses on the design aspects that are essential, or high priority, product requirements so that these can be tested against criteria and/or vetted with target users/stakeholders.
Alpha prototypes are bespoke builds that would be difficult to reproduce in quantities. They are usually constructed with one-off enclosures or mechanical parts (e.g., 3D printed, CNC machined, low-quantity molded, and/or handcrafted), simple electronic assemblies (e.g., hand-soldered parts, low-quantity rough PCB assemblies, and/or off-the-shelf or re-used electronic sub-assemblies), and the software, application and/or firmware are functional but not expected to be robust or bug-free.
Alpha prototypes are used for:
There can be multiple Alpha prototype iterations – depending on testing, stakeholder feedback, and product improvements or refinements that are introduced – before a project proceeds to Beta prototype efforts.
Learn more about what a Beta prototype is, here.
