A proof of concept is a limited implementation or demonstration used to test whether a proposed solution meets practical requirements before committing to it. In technology buying, it narrows evaluation to leading candidates rather than replacing broader due diligence. section 8.2.1 section 8.8.2
Use a proof of concept as a focused decision aid:
- List requirements and classify each as must-have or nice-to-have before testing solutions. section 8.2.1
- Run focused proofs of concept against the final two candidates to keep the work useful and bounded. section 8.2.1
- Ask a vendor to build the demonstration when the purchase is substantial; treat this as part of the technical sale. section 8.2.1
- Do not select the technology solely because it powered the proof of concept; confirm that it can scale into production. section 8.8.2
A vendor-built demonstration
A large software purchase can include vendor engineers building a proof of concept, much like a test drive helps assess a car before purchase. The demonstration tests fit, but the final decision must also consider lock-in, feature limits, support, and the vendor’s release schedule. section 8.2.1
Table 8.1 Advantages and disadvantages of buying (view table figure)
Compare the broader advantages and disadvantages surrounding a purchased solution before treating a successful proof of concept as sufficient evidence. section 8.2.1
