rapid prototyping

process of quickly developing experimental models, process of rapidly creating prototypes

Rapid prototyping also describes a software engineering methodology. Rapid prototyping is the automatic construction of physical objects using solid freeform fabrication. The first techniques for rapid prototyping became available in the late 1980s and were used to produce models and prototype parts. Today, they are used for a much wider range of applications and are even used to manufacture production quality parts in relatively small numbers. Some sculptors use the technology to produce complex shapes for fine arts exhibitions.
See more at Wikipedia.org...

<programming> The creation of a working model of a software module to demonstrate the feasibility of the function. The prototype is later refined for inclusion in a final product.
(1996-05-29)