What is software development proof of concept?
Concept validation or proof of concept is an important step when it comes to complex and, therefore, expensive projects. It gives a clear idea of whether the idea is feasible and exactly how to implement it.
Thus, proof or proof of concept involves the preparation of a certain list of measurable criteria that allows you to assess the expected end result.
When developing an idea for an existing product or extending it, there are more risks of encountering unpredictable difficulties. This is why proof of concept in software development is a common practice.
Proof of concept in software development is not exactly what typical proof of concept is for other products. The point is that they serve different purposes. Proof of concept is usually required to show that an idea has some potential and is in demand. Proof of concept in software development is needed to validate solutions to technical problems, to find a specific answer to a functional question, or to test new features.
POC vs. POC in software development and vs. MVP
People often confuse proof of concept, proof of concept in software development and minimum viable product (MVP). To clear the air once and for all, let’s see what’s what.
POC
Proof of concept is a demonstrable justification of why an idea is worth pursuing and how it can get to market. A proof of concept can be a new feature of a company’s existing product, an expansion of the product line, or a new product for startups. And that’s probably where all the controversy comes from, since startups are almost always about software development, which is not always the case. What is proof of concept is a pretty broad concept.
MVP
Unlike a proof of concept, a minimum viable product (MVP) is a product that is ready to be released to the market, which means it has basic functionality, sometimes represented by even one basic feature. It helps to collect the first feedback from real customers and use it later to create a full-fledged product. What is MVP – is it more about the practical testing of a product?
Proof of concept in software development
A proof of concept in software development is really about proving that certain technical problems can be solved and in what way. For example, how, on the technical side, a product can be integrated into an existing enterprise system.
The goal is to understand: whether your software development idea can be implemented and what technologies can help you do this most effectively.
The main benefits of proof of concept in software development:
- Will help you save time and money by identifying which concepts don’t work;
- You can gain a competitive advantage because proof of concept gives you more assurance that the idea can be implemented;
- Proof of concept allows you to choose the right technology from the beginning.
