5 Steps to Better Prototyping
by Paul Orselli, President and Chief Instigator at POW! (Paul Orselli Workshop, Inc.)
I think everything (exhibits, signage, events) in your museum can be made better if you prototype (or test them out) first. I like to use the word ELVIS as a mnemonic to help me focus on what’s important when I’m prototyping.
Step 1: E = Everyday Materials
Using everyday materials makes it easier to prototype AND maintain exhibits.
Step 2: L = Looseness
Provide open-ended opportunities during prototype development for staff, and for prototype testing with visitors. If you limit your preconceptions, you’ll be amazed at what you can find out through testing and observing.
Step 3: V = Vermicious
Vermicious means "wormy." Look for exhibit topics and prototyping ideas that "worm around" on many different levels: old/young, art/science, history/modern times, and don’t just fit your ideas into one small conceptual “box.”
Step 4: I = Iteration
Try, try again! Prototyping, testing, and evaluating are all about NOT trying to get things right the first time, but learning (and modifying things) during each successive try.
Step 5: S = Sharing
Take both the successes and failures from your prototyping experiences and share those ideas with your visitors, and each other as professionals.
