What is a mock-up?

A mock-up is typically a rough model created to demonstrate the concept or design of a product. This kind of model is often made from inexpensive materials like cardboard, foam, or other similar substances. The primary purpose of a mock-up is to allow designers and stakeholders to visualize and evaluate the form, layout, and design features of the final product before significant resources are invested in detailed engineering or production processes.

Unlike a detailed model made of metal, which would be more representative of the final product's specifics, a mock-up focuses on the overall appearance and functionality at an early stage, making it a useful tool for gathering feedback and making iterative design changes. It is not an electronic version of a prototype, as that implies a different kind of representation involving software and simulations rather than a physical, tangible model. Furthermore, a mock-up is not a finished product ready for production, as it lacks the refinement and functionality of a production-ready item.