Low-High-fidelity design
Category: Design
Low / High - Fidelity models in design
In design and product development, the terms "Low-fidelity" (low accuracy) and "High-fidelity" (high accuracy) are used to describe the level of detail and realism in prototypes and models.
Low-Fidelity models
Low-fidelity (lo-fi) models are simplified representations of design that focus on structure, functionality, and flow, without delving into visual details.
Characteristics:
- Fast creation and modification
- Minimal visual details
- Focused on structure and functionality
- Black and white or limited color
- Often hand-drawn
- Ideal for early design stages
Examples:
- Paper sketches
- Wireframes
- Basic prototypes with minimal interactivity
High-Fidelity models
High-fidelity (hi-fi) models are detailed representations that mimic the final product in terms of visual design, interactivity, and functionality.
Characteristics:
- Detailed visual design
- Realistic interactions and animations
- Fine-tuning of user experience
- Full color palette and typography
- High level of functionality
- Ideal for testing and validation
Examples:
- Interactive prototypes
- Pixel-perfect design
- Functional demonstrations
Comparison between Low and High-Fidelity models
| Aspect | Low-Fidelity | High-Fidelity |
|---|---|---|
| Creation time | Fast | Slow process |
| Price | Low | High |
| Interactivity | Limited or missing | High, close to the final product |
| Visual details | Minimal | Detailed and realistic |
| Appropriate for | Ideas, concepts, brainstorming | Testing, validation, demonstrations |
| Change ease | Easy | Hard |
Conclusion
Both types of models have their place in the design process. Low-fidelity models are ideal for early stages when ideas are formed and feedback is sought for the basic structure and functionality. High-fidelity models are suitable for later stages when the design is established and testing of details and user experience is required.
The effective design process often includes both approaches, starting with low-fidelity sketches and gradually transitioning to high-fidelity prototypes as the project progresses.