An often overlooked step, a prototype is very important for at least two reasons:
1) In the beginning steps of design and development, many plastic parts need funding beyond the capabilities of the product’s creator. A working prototype allows creators to take their product to investors and potential customers with a thorough presentation.
2) A proper prototype helps iron out glitches that are not immediately apparent. This step ensures that the creator will end up with exactly what they want without expensive and time-consuming changes made to the mold later.
A prototype is great preparation for the tooling process.