A prototype is any physical embodiment or representation of a design. Prototypes can be made at varying levels of fidelity and used to model entire systems or specific details. MAYA emphasizes the value of constant iteration’s that is, making various renderings, models, and prototypes quickly and routinely. This often includes throwing them away and making new iterations informed by the previous ones.
Prototypes give designers a better understanding of the spatial relationships and constraints of a product, allowing them to make adjustments quickly and at minimal cost. They reveal new opportunities as well as unforeseen issues. They also give users and clients something tangible to interact with, react to, and experience first-hand, resulting in a design process that is transparent and fully considered from start to finish.