nonproduct

A nonproduct is a term used in software development and product management to describe an item that is not a fully realized, deliverable product. It can represent a variety of stages or concepts that precede or exist alongside a finished product.

Nonproducts often include prototypes, which are early working models used to test concepts or user interfaces. They can also encompass proof-of-concepts, designed to demonstrate the feasibility of a particular technology or feature. Wireframes and mockups, which are visual representations of a product's structure and appearance, are also considered nonproducts.

In some contexts, a nonproduct might refer to an experimental feature or an internal tool that is not intended for external release. It could also be a discarded idea or a project that was initiated but never completed. The key characteristic of a nonproduct is its lack of formal release, support, or a defined place in a company's product portfolio. Understanding what constitutes a nonproduct is important for clear communication within development teams and for managing expectations regarding potential deliverables.