BUSINESS ENGLISH · B1–C1 practice support

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How should we test the prototype before committing to a large order?

Updated 2026-09-09 · SpeakBEC editorial project

This topic preserves earlier guided practice. It has not yet completed the new conversation-course editorial review and is not labelled expert-validated.

5 min practice10 min practice15 min practiceSelf-review checkpoint
15 min · Full lesson material

Agree an action

How should we test the prototype before committing to a large order?

How should we test the prototype before committing to a large order?

1 · Notice the conversation

Colleague: Where should we try the sample?

You: We should try the sample in both cafés.

Colleague: Why is measuring alone not enough?

You: A box can fit the shelf but still be difficult to open.

Colleague: What should the prototype test include?

You: The prototype test should include storing, taking out and opening the box.

2 · Understand what each phrase does

customer need

a problem the buyer needs help with

A compact box addresses this customer need.

need 是需要解决的问题,不等于客户已经指定了唯一解决方案。

prototype

an early version to try

We will test a prototype of the smaller box.

prototype 用来学习和修改,不应当作已验证的量产成品。

iteration

a change made after testing

Our next iteration will have a wider lid.

iteration 要说明根据什么改了哪里;不是单纯重复制作同样东西。

3 · Rehearse, then change the details

We should try the sample in both cafés.

A box can fit the shelf but still be difficult to open.

The prototype test should include storing, taking out and opening the box.

We should record problems before placing a large order.

Keep the purpose; change the person, document or time. A simple, accurate sentence is enough.

4 · Respond to your colleague

Where should we try the sample?

应在两家咖啡馆试用样品。

See one possible reply

We should try the sample in both cafés.

Why is measuring alone not enough?

盒子即使放得下,也可能不好打开。

See one possible reply

A box can fit the shelf but still be difficult to open.

What should the prototype test include?

样品测试应包括储存、拿取和开盖。

See one possible reply

The prototype test should include storing, taking out and opening the box.

5 · Try a different situation

What if staff use the box differently?

What if staff use the box differently?
Address the changed condition. Choose a practical next step and explain why it helps.

6 · Recall without the model tomorrow

Where should we try the sample?