What is a mockup?

A mockup is primarily understood as a model devised for study or testing. It serves as a tangible representation of a design or concept, allowing stakeholders and designers to evaluate and refine the look and functionality before the final version is developed. Mockups can include various formats, such as physical or digital, but their essential purpose is to visualize and test ideas in a concrete way.

By creating a mockup, designers can explore aspects like usability, aesthetics, and overall design functionality. This approach helps to identify potential issues early in the design process, which can save time and resources compared to making changes later with a final product.

Although digital representations of objects can be part of a mockup, the emphasis on it being a model for study and testing is what distinctly categorizes a mockup in the design process.