Which of the following can act as a benchmark for evaluating a finished system?

The selection of a prototype as a benchmark for evaluating a finished system is appropriate because a prototype serves as a preliminary version of the system. It demonstrates both the intended functionality and design aspects before full-scale implementation. Users can interact with the prototype, provide feedback, and identify areas for improvement. This feedback loop is crucial for refining the final system, allowing for adjustments based on real user experience and expectations.

Although benchmarks and templates play important roles in developmental contexts, they do not provide the dynamic interaction and iterative evaluation that a prototype does. A benchmark report offers specific performance metrics but does not capture the intricacies of user interaction with the system. Similarly, a system audit assesses compliance and performance after implementation but is not designed to guide the initial development in the same way that a prototype does. Thus, using a prototype as a benchmark allows for a more effective evaluation by focusing on both functionality and user experience before the final system is deployed.