Design thinking resource
Two independent choices that determine how a prototype behaves and how much detail it communicates.
Fidelity describes how closely a prototype behaves like or functions as the intended final response. Resolution describes the level of detail represented, such as text, colour, finish and visual precision.
A prototype can be high in one and low in the other. Treating the dimensions separately helps a team avoid unnecessary work.
Higher fidelity and resolution generally require more time and resources but may create a more realistic or precise representation. Lower levels can be produced quickly and inexpensively.
Low-fidelity work is valuable for early exploration, but it may not support testing where realistic interaction matters. Similarly, low resolution may hide details that are central to the question.
If the goal is to test interaction and usability, behavioural fidelity may matter most. If the team needs to examine precise content or technical detail, higher resolution may be required.
Prototyping is iterative. Multiple versions with different fidelity and resolution may be necessary as the questions become more specific.
Put the method to work
Name exactly what the prototype needs to help the team learn.
Decide how realistically the prototype must behave for the test to be credible.
Determine which details must be represented accurately and which can remain provisional.
Avoid polishing aspects that participants do not need in order to respond meaningfully.
Add realism and detail only as evidence justifies the next investment.
Why it matters
Stop visual detail from creating the false impression that an idea is already fixed.
Direct time and resources toward the part of the idea currently being tested.
Give participants enough realism and detail to provide a meaningful response.
Keep ideas flexible while the team is still learning what should change.
Continue exploring
Place this method back within the broader 5E Design Thinking Framework and continue developing your understanding.