Understanding Proof of Concept in Product Development

In this episode of The Product Handbook, we dig into the Proof of Concept (PoC) — the often-overlooked but critical step that answers one essential question: Can this idea work?

You’ll learn:

• What a PoC really is — and how it differs from a prototype or MVP

• When and why to build a PoC — especially when you're exploring technical feasibility or innovation under uncertainty

• How to define success criteria, identify key risks, and communicate results to stakeholders or investors

• Real-world examples of how PoCs have de-risked big bets and saved teams from chasing dead ends

• A simple mental checklist to remember the PoC process: Define, Build, Test, Learn, Decide

Whether you're validating a bold new tech idea, pitching to leadership, or prepping for an interview question like “How would you validate a new product concept?” — this episode helps you speak fluently and strategically about the earliest phase of proving potential.