A Prototype Is Worth 1000 Meetings

As the saying goes, “Great minds think alike.” Not sure that it’s really true, but in any event I actually wrote two posts on Mentorphile based on the same saying, A picture is worth a thousand words:

Why a prototype is worth 1,000 pitch decks

Sequel to a prototype is worth 1000 slides

But Tom and David Kelly of Ideo fame’s article “If a picture is worth 1000 words, a prototype is worth 1000 meetings.” still has some valuable points for founders doing pitches. (And if you are not familiar with Ideo, they are a global design firm – check out their site.

Given how important design has become I recommend all founder’s learn at least the rudiments of design. Here are some valuable words of advice from the article:

Getting early feedback and making updates in a prototype is much convenient and almost takes no cost as compared to making changes in an implemented system. and

Without a prototype, it’s only a concept. It can be difficult to get a potential client to commit to the purchase of a concept. –Steve Upton

Author: Mentorphile

Mentor, coach, and advisor to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and non-profit organizations. General manager with significant experience in both for-profit and non-profit organizations. Focus on media and information. On founding team of four venture-backed companies. Currently Chairman of Popsleuth, Inc., maker of the Endorfyn app for keeping fans updated on new stuff from their favorite artists. View all posts by Mentorphile