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Proof of concept

Validate the feasibility of a new idea

About the proof of concept template

Understand the potential for a new product or feature idea and whether it is worth pursuing. This proof of concept (POC) template serves as a preliminary step before investing resources in development.

The template is built with sections for goals, challenges, collaborators, proposed concepts, success criteria, and a timeline. You might choose to expand to include areas such as budget/resources, data sources, customer feedback, and team to-do's.

Completing a POC can seem time-intensive but is well worth the upfront effort. Validate your assumptions and reduce uncertainty so you can turn your energy towards solutions with the best likelihood of success.

Best practices

Save time and resources before full-scale implementation.

Start with objectives List the main objectives of the POC, which can include assessing user interest or testing key assumptions. Everything you include in your POC should ladder back to your core objectives.
Define boundaries Specify what will and will not be included in the POC. Detail any technical, resource, or time limitations.
Invite stakeholders Engage different team members with varying expertise and backgrounds to provide insights that can enrich your POC.
Be comprehensive, but concise If the POC is successful, what tasks and responsibilities will be involved? Where does this fit within your other product development work? Recognize that your concept map may change as you gain more insights and market feedback. Keep it flexible and be prepared to adjust as your understanding of the concept deepens.

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