Take a look at these two definitions:
#1–
A first, typical or preliminary model of something, especially a machine, from which other forms are developed or copied.”
#2–
A set of actions that have been thought of as a way to do or achieve something.”
These definitions sound pretty similar, right?
Both have to do with the early stages of creating something.
Definition #1 describes the word prototype. Definition #2 describes the word plan.
There is one key difference.
A prototype generates feedback. A plan does not.
A prototype creates a response that helps your idea evolve. It creates action.
A plan just looks good on paper.
A first draft is a prototype. It is something you can give to someone else and they can respond with comments.
An outline is a plan. You may share it with someone else, but you won’t receive much in return.
It is fine to plan, but at some point we all must take that next step and create a prototype.
Photo credit: Wikipedia
