We use the phrase self-serve UI prototyping with GenAI to describe an emerging technique where tools such as Claude Code, Figma Make, Miro AI and v0 enable product managers to generate interactive, user-testable prototypes directly from text prompts. Instead of manually crafting wireframes, teams can generate functional HTML, CSS and JS artifacts in minutes — offering the speed of a sketch, but with real interactivity and higher fidelity. These “throwaway” prototypes trade polish for rapid learning, making them ideal for early validation during design sprints. However, higher fidelity can lead to misplaced focus on small details or unrealistic expectations about production effort — making clear framing and expectation management essential.
Used alongside user research, this technique accelerates discovery by turning abstract ideas into tangible experiences for users to react to. However, teams should take care not to let these tools replace the research process itself. Done well, self-serve prototyping shortens feedback loops, lowers barriers for non-designers and helps teams iterate quickly while maintaining a healthy balance between speed and quality.
