How a High-Fidelity Prototype Helped a Founder Secure Stakeholder Buy-In and Chart a Clear Path to Launch
Chris Malleo, founder of Culture Health, wanted to bring his bold vision to life: a platform that helps organizations measure and act on culture in real time. To move from idea to momentum, he needed more than decks and documents—he needed something tangible to inspire stakeholders and validate his product.
the challenge
Early-stage founders often struggle to bridge the gap between concept and traction. For Chris, the challenge was clear: how to showcase Culture Health in a way that would convince partners, advisors, and future investors of its potential. Static documents weren't enough—stakeholders needed to see, click, and believe in the product.
the solution
Mountain Dev partnered with Chris to rapidly design a high-fidelity prototype through a Foundation Sprint. In just weeks, we built a clickable prototype that looked, felt, and functioned like a real product. Every screen was crafted to highlight Culture Health's core value: delivering real-time, anonymous cultural insights and actionable leadership guidance.
Chris used the prototype to gain early traction, align stakeholders, and prepare for funding. By the time they were ready to raise capital, they weren't selling an idea—they were showing a product.
For Culture Health, the prototype wasn't a mock-up. It was a launchpad.
the results
Armed with the prototype, Chris was able to:
Run live demos with partners and stakeholders- Build credibility with a polished, realistic product experience
- Confidently estimate development costs and funding needs
- Use the prototype as a storytelling tool to move conversations from 'what if' to 'what's next'
