Mistakes move a project forward
A first prototype that doesn't work as expected isn't bad news — it's useful information.
Every revealed flaw prevents a later problem
A prototype that fails on a specific point gives concrete information the idea alone couldn't provide: an underestimated mechanical stress, insufficient clearance, an unsuitable material. This information allows the design to be adjusted before final manufacturing, which always costs less than a late-stage fix.
Changing how you see technical failure
Treating a failed prototype as a failure rather than a normal step sometimes leads to abandoning a project too soon. Most objects that work well today went through several imperfect versions before reaching a satisfying solution.
Frequently asked questions
How many failures are normal before a successful prototype?
It varies with project complexity, but several iterations are common and don't signal any particular problem.