Course Description
In this course students will learn how to use prototyping as a method to explore design, communicate, and test design concepts with fellow team members and clients. Students will learn a number of different prototyping methods and tools, including paper, PowerPoint/Keynote, Visio/OmniGraffle, Fireworks, Axure, and HTML. Students will also learn a number of guiding principles, tips, and tricks to help make their prototypes more effective.
Prerequisites
- US-300 Interaction Design 1 (future release)
- US-400 Usability 1 (future release)
Recommended Textbook(s)
- Zaki Warfel, Todd. Prototyping: a Practitioner’s Guide. : Rosenfield Media, 2009.
Recommended Reading
- Stanford, Julie (2003,01,06). HTML Wireframes and Prototypes: All Gain and No Pain. Retrieved August 19, 2009, from Boxes and Arrows Web site.
- Dimon, Garrett (2006,03,06). Just Build It: HTML Prototyping and Agile Development. Retrieved August 19, 2009, from Digital Web Web site.
- Hoekman Jr, Robert (2007,08,21). Deliverables That Work: Design Description Documents. Retrieved August 19, 2009, from Think Vitamin Web site.
Technologies Required
- Students will need their own web server to post their assignments
- Mac or PC computer with internet connection
- Web Browsers (Firefox, Opera, Safari, Internet Explorer)
- Copy of the following popular applications used for prototyping (most are available for a free 30 day trial): Visio/OmniGraffle, Powerpoint/Keynote, Axure RP Pro, and Fireworks
- Web page editor that fosters the development of valid (X)HTML and CSS code. Mac: Dreamweaver, Coda, TextMate, Aptana. Windows: Dreamweaver, TextPad, CoffeeCup, Aptana, NotePad.
- Web page debugging and evaluation tools such as Dreamweaver, Firebug, and the Firefox Web Developer Toolbar.
- Slide presentation software (e.g. Powerpoint, Keynote, OpenOffice)
- Whiteboard and markers
- Paper and pencils