Prototyping is a crucial phase in the design process where ideas are transformed into tangible representations. This allows designers and stakeholders to visualize concepts, test functionality, and gather feedback before final production. Prototypes can range from simple sketches to interactive models, depending on the project's needs. The primary goal of prototyping is to identify potential issues early in the development cycle, saving time and resources. By engaging users with prototypes, designers can refine their ideas based on real-world interactions, ensuring that the final product meets user expectations and requirements.