proofofconcept

Proof of concept, often abbreviated PoC, is a demonstration intended to verify that a concept or idea is technically feasible or commercially viable. A PoC focuses on establishing a critical hypothesis—such as that a chosen algorithm can meet required performance, a new integration can function, or a business model can deliver value—without building a full product. It is commonly used early in research, development, or project planning to de-risk the next steps.

PoCs can be technical or non-technical. A technical PoC might implement a small, simplified version of a system to test core functionality, data flows, or performance under defined conditions. A business PoC might evaluate market interest, cost structure, or operational viability using mock processes or pilot data. PoCs are typically limited in scope, time-bound, and designed to produce clear success criteria and learnings.

Deliverables often include a demonstration, a results report, performance metrics, risk assessment, and recommended next steps such as moving to a prototype, pilot, or minimum viable product. Common pitfalls include scope creep, overoptimistic assumptions, and relying on non-representative data or environments.

PoCs differ from prototypes, which aim to resemble the final product’s form and function, and from pilots, which test a product or process in a real-world setting at limited scale. Together, PoCs help organizations decide whether to invest further in development.