Prototype
Prototype (n.) The term itself derives from the Greek word, prototypon, which means “primitive form”, “protos” which means “first”, and “typos” which means “impression, mold, pattern”. 1 A prototype is the preliminary model or iteration of a product, from which other forms are developed or copied afterwards. It aids in providing specifications and analysis for real working systems, rather than theoretical ones that may be limited to only hypotheses. It is designed to test and trial various circumstances that would allow for more complete and advanced iterations afterwards. 2 The main objective of prototypes is to test whether or not the product is fluent and consistent in its purpose. They allow the tester to analyze its feasibility and usability, and create better opportunities to notice unexpected discoveries and innovations that may allow for the purpose of the product go beyond its initial scope. Walt Disney’s Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, EPCOT, can be seen as the perfect manifestation of the term. It idealizes it self as the “city of tomorrow” that aims to restore and rebuild a degree of comfort, cleanliness, and “humanity” that was missing from contemporary society. This miniature city/community was seen as a celebration of human achievement, technologically and culturally, and was referred to as a “Permanent World’s Fair”, where various new and innovative technologies were designed and tested in hope of being applied in society. 3