proof of concept
/ˌpruːf əv ˈkɒnsept/noun
A proof of concept is a small-scale experiment that investigates whether an idea is technically or practically feasible before it is fully developed.
The team used a proof of concept to test whether the scheduling software could process data from the old system.
A proof of concept, often abbreviated to PoC, answers a focused question about an idea's feasibility. The team investigates only what is needed to answer that question. The result might be working code, a technical experiment, a calculation or an integration between systems.
What does a PoC investigate?
Start with a specific assumption. Can an existing recognition model extract document data accurately enough? Can an external Glossary · In briefAPIAn API is a defined way for software to exchange data or call functions in other software without needing to know how that software works internally.Read more handle the expected request volume? The PoC focuses on the area with the greatest uncertainty. Design, administration features and other parts not needed for the experiment are usually left out.
The outcome does not have to be that the idea works. An unsuccessful experiment can reveal early that a technology, supplier or approach is unsuitable. The findings help decide whether further development makes sense and which questions remain.
How it differs from a prototype and MVP
A Glossary · In briefprototypeA prototype is an early, simplified version of a product. It makes an idea visible or testable so you can learn before developing the complete product.Read more makes an idea tangible. It can help investigate how users navigate an application or how a screen should work. It does not have to work technically in the same way as the final product.
A proof of concept concerns feasibility and can be limited and temporary. An Glossary · In briefMVPMVP stands for Minimum Viable Product: the smallest usable version of a product that lets you test key assumptions with real users.Read more is an initial usable version for real users. Alongside its core function, it needs security, error handling and management. A PoC may be followed by a prototype and then an MVP, but this is not a fixed sequence.