When should you stop polishing a small project prototype?
Write the question and stopping condition before revising. Once the material can address that question, record the result. A new question belongs in another round rather than an expanding prototype.
Separate necessary fixes from extra features
Clarifying a timetable matters when testing whether an event plan is understandable. Adding a points system answers another question. Record exclusions so that each new idea does not move the finish line.
Finish with an answer, including uncertainty
Classify the result as understandable, still unclear or insufficient material. An unhelpful result can still end a round. Preserve the version and target one important unknown next time instead of polishing until everyone praises it.
A worksheet you can use
Question: __. Necessary material: __. Exclusions: __. Stopping condition: __. Result: __. Next focus: __.
What if nobody agrees to try it?
Record insufficient participation, not a passing result. Reconsider the situation and invitation.
Evidence and scope
Ending a prototype round does not establish readiness for a public service.
IDEO.org discusses iterative prototyping. WKND examples are editorial, not endorsed. IDEO.org Design Kit — Rapid Prototyping
Sources and further reading
This collection in Chinese and English · Life possibilities library
