This guide introduces prototyping as a way to test and improve ideas early, before piloting or large-scale investment. It supports evidence-based policymaking by refining concepts through structured experimentation. The framework includes practical guidance, stages, and a checklist to help tailor the process for individuals or organisations with untested ideas.

Prototyping is an approach to developing, testing and improving ideas at an early stage before large-scale resources are committed to implementation. Prototyping should be thought about before piloting is considered. It helps build a better specification for what a pilot might look like. Prototyping is part of the test and refine process in policymaking that ensures ideas are fully explored before any conclusions are drawn. It informs and improves any eventual project framework for change. 

This framework provides background information on why prototyping should be used, when, what, how and who to do it with. Depending on what you are prototyping, different stages of this guide will be more relevant than others, but a framework and checklist are provided to assist structuring a tailored approach. The guide is useful for any organisation or individual with a new untested idea.