Proof of concept (POC) is the process of validating the feasibility and viability of a concept, idea, or technology. It calls for the creation of a small-scale demonstration or prototype to showcase the core functionalities and potential of the concept. The main goal of a proof of concept is to evaluate the technical feasibility, assess the practicality of implementation, identify potential challenges, and determine if the proposed solution or idea can be transformed into a viable product or service.
For example, in the context of software development, a company may engage with a software vendor and request a proof of concept to assess how their software can be customized and integrated into the existing infrastructure. This allows the company to evaluate the vendor's capabilities, understand the software's compatibility with their specific requirements, and verify its potential to address their business needs effectively.