We agree that creativity is exciting. All the brainstorming sessions often inspire members to develop new ideas to solve problems.
Every second, new innovations in technology are touching millions of lives, either directly or indirectly. However, thousands of projects fail every day. Don’t be surprised.
The original ideas are poorly tested, bringing in false value for the project. Thus, the project starts to go in the wrong direction from the very start.
However, using the Proof of Concept (POC) approach can be easily avoided. Many software developers use proof of concept to determine the value and verify whether the theory or idea is achievable.
Let us understand the proof of concept in detail.
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What is Proof of Concept?
In general terms, proof of concept implies the approach that leads to developing and implementing a new idea. The idea aims to define whether the concept is viable and applicable in practice.
It helps determine if the idea is feasible enough to solve a particular problem.
It involves testing a particular assumption to demonstrate its functionality. This proof of concept is applicable in various fields, including marketing, medicine, and more. However, proof of concept in software development follows a specific process.
Proof of concept in custom software development refers to a process that helps avoid technical problems, determines the likelihood of being adopted by its intended users, and allows you to gather feedback early in the development cycle. Thus, it helps reduce unnecessary risks and keeps the project on track.
Why Do You Need Proof of Concept?
The above explanation is the first reason proof of concept is controversial. The person who comes up with the idea is completely convinced that it will work.
However, applying the proof of concept approach helps derive the best version of the project. For starters, it reduces the risk factor involved and saves you time and money in the process.
Furthermore, you are not alone. You need to convince the stakeholders that the idea is worth investing in.
Multiple organizations are involved in creating something of value. This proof of concept document helps persuade the interested parties that the idea has actual value and real-time effect.
The need for a proof of concept project arises in the following cases:
- When there is a need to check the value of the idea of any changes in the plan.
- To ensure that the chosen method of workflow is right.
- To determine whether the proposed project matches the expectations of the intended users.
- To find out the limitations of the solution for a specific problem and demonstrate its functionality.
Whether creating entirely new software or adding new features to an existing one, the proof of concept system will ensure you complete the project.
When to Use Proof of Concept in Software Development
Let’s look at some of the case scenarios where one can apply proof of concept:
1. Let’s just say a client is looking for ways to solve a problem faced every day at the workplace. As a suggestion, an app can be developed to significantly help the company. But then the question arises: is the idea feasible or viable?
That’s when you can use proof of concept to determine its feasibility and adaptability. Here, the proof of concept approach is used to find an optimal way to achieve the outcome rather than focusing on the deliverables.
2. Proof of concept is viable for scenarios where the developers need to find the best technologies that they can use to create a well-optimized app. Such a process is generally conducted at the start of the app development process and is carried out internally. It helps form a project road map.
This brings us to our next question — how to conduct a proof of concept?
Specific steps need to be followed (which we will discuss later in the article). However, to draw up the criteria list, you need first to answer a few questions.
In other words, proof of concept checklist:
- Goals: What are we trying to achieve?
- Testing: What are the specifications that need to be tested?
- Timeline: Is it achievable in the given time frame?
- Implementation: How will this be implemented into the workflow exactly?
- Value: Does the project have any real value that we are trying to create?
- Resource: Do we have enough funds to complete the project?
This is where the team members start researching and begin to develop a solution or feature.
Steps to Conduct a Concrete Proof of Concept Process
Follow these steps to convert your PoC into a viable and actionable solution:
1. Gather Full Knowledge of the Product
The first step involves gathering as much information on the product you are trying to develop. It should, after all, provide a solution to the problem you are trying to solve. It could be either related to improving employees’ productivity at work or trying to reach a new market that hasn’t been served before.
In any case, the software you are trying to build should meet your needs.
Be clear of the pain points that your intended users are experiencing. Interview users and stakeholders and ask them about the implications of each pain point. It ensures that every aspect is taken into account.
2. Map Every Pain Point to the Solution
Once you have identified those pain points, you must find ways to solve them.
This is where you engage in brainstorming sessions with your team members or colleagues and discuss all the possible solutions. There will be many ways to solve the problem. However, you will need to evaluate every solution of cost, time, competition, resources, and other technical challenges.
In the end, you should have a clear answer to which solution you are going to use in the final product. Moreover, once you have decided on the solution, you should try communicating it to the target audience and stakeholders to see their reactions.
Tell them what you have envisaged for the product and gather their feedback.
3. Build a Prototype of Your Product and Test It
After you have decided on a solution, the next step is to create a prototype of the product. The prototype should have the expected UI/UX set and other features. Use the prototype to test with those you are planning to target. It will give you more input on what is lacking and what needs improvement.
Gather feedback on its functionality, interface, ease of use, and more.
4. Create a Minimal Value Product (MVP)
A minimum-value product is built to ensure you have a product that delivers the right features and experience.
You might have a great software idea; however, it doesn’t mean you have the right product with the right features. That’s where MVP comes in. It is an early version of the product you are trying to build. It helps you find the finest execution of the proof of concept that can be a successful product.
You can use the MVP to test it in front of a small group of your interviewees that represents your target audience. You will have more feedback and tell you if the product is viable.
Also, Read: Why You Need MVP for Mobile App Development?
5. Create Technical Specifications – A Roadmap
The management team has to collaborate with the entire team. And then outline a step-by-step guide on how to go about the things in detail.
With the help of all the information collected, it will be easy to build a roadmap. This roadmap is the blueprint of the entire way of working for making the product. You can have a proof of concept checklist that might include:
- Creating a hierarchical organizational chart for easy supervision of the work
- List of all the stages of work that needs to be done
- Assigning tasks to different members so that they can be held accountable
It ensures that everyone, including the developers, stakeholders, or investors, remains on the same page throughout the process.
Conclusion
Before we conclude, one crucial thing to note is:
Documentation is the key.
You should document every step and detail for your proof of concept projects, including the steps of installation, step-up and configuration, results of all tests performed, feedback gathered, and final findings.
Besides, documentation will help the supporting team to replicate the same product. And it supports all members within the organization to clearly understand the proof of concept steps.
Remember that proof of concept is tangible evidence that your idea is worthwhile and saves you from spending a lot of money in case the project is not viable.
A Digital marketing expert with a passion for all things digital. With a wealth of experience in the field, can excel at crafting and executing data-driven marketing strategies that drive results. Also, loves to travel and explore new things.
