PROTOTYPING - SYSTEMS-DEVELOPMENT IN RECORD TIME

Prototyping is frequently cited as a desirable step in many developmen tal efforts, not just those concerned with computer-based systems. Yet , the inner workings of the prototyping process remain a mystery to th ose who have never participated in such an effort. In this article, th e author, who has led several prototyping efforts, shares his insights into the process of developing a prototype and his beliefs about what it takes to make that process work. In general, what it takes is ''a monomaniac with a mission,'' and intense focus. Its chief benefit, as the title implies, is systems development in record time.