Proof of concept within custom software development

A Proof of Concept in software development is a small-scale development that demonstrates that a certain concept, technique or idea is feasible in practice. This is an important phase where the technical feasibility and/or functionality and potential of a project are tested before time and resources are spent on it.

A Proof of Concept (PoC) always starts with a clearly defined question: what problem do we want to solve and what solution do we want to test? The goal of a PoC is not to deliver a complete final product, but to determine as quickly as possible whether an idea is technically feasible and valuable. This is often done with a minimal set of functionalities, a prototype, or a test environment. By testing the solution in a controlled setting, you gain immediate insight into the possibilities, limitations, and potential risks. This saves time and money, and prevents unpleasant surprises later in the process.

Setting up a Proof of Concept doesn't have to be complicated. A structured approach will help you get the most out of it:

1. Determine the challenge you want to solve and what you want to demonstrate with the Proof of Concept.
2. Choose a small, concrete part of the solution to test. This makes it feasible and clear.
3. Define clear metrics: when is the Proof of Concept successful? Consider performance, usability, or integration possibilities.
4. Build a prototype or minimal viable product (MVP) and test it with a select group of users or stakeholders.
5. Analyze the results and determine whether the idea should proceed to the next phase, be modified, or be discontinued.

With this step-by-step plan, you not only make the PoC tangible but also ensure that everyone involved has a clear understanding of the value and feasibility of the proposed solution.

A Proof of Concept is essential in the development of custom software. It not only helps our development team, but also provides vital benefits to our customers. Below are some reasons why a PoC is indispensable:

• Risk reduction: A PoC helps us test the technical feasibility and operational workability of a concept, allowing us to identify and resolve problems early. This reduces the risk of failure in later phases and prevents unexpected costs and delays.
• Stakeholder Agreement: A PoC provides a visual and functional demonstration of the proposed solution, allowing stakeholders, including project teams and customers, to review the solution and provide feedback before full development begins. This promotes shared understanding and agreement.
• Fostering Innovation: A PoC allows teams to experiment with new ideas and solutions in a controlled environment. This promotes creativity and innovation without the pressure of the entire project.

Below are some different examples where a PoC can add significant value to the software development process:

• Validation technology: Based on the desire to develop applications for desktop and mobile, we first developed a PoC to test the operation of the technology. Specifically, we investigated whether the technology is compatible with the client's hardware.
• Implementing an AI tool: Before developing a full AI solution, a PoC could assess the effectiveness of the AI tool within the existing system to ensure it would be a successful solution.

Although both terms are often used interchangeably, a Proof of Concept refers to testing the project idea for technical feasibility, while a prototype is an early version of the product used to test the functional aspect of the project.

At SST we use a PoC to show our customers how our software solutions can improve their business processes. This allows us to work closely with customers to develop software that truly meets their unique business needs and challenges.

For more information about our approach and how we use PoC in custom software development, you can view our working method.