Why your project could fail without proof of concept - and how to do it right!

A well-executed proof of concept (PoC) can make the difference between success and failure. It provides valuable insights and creates a clear basis for decision-making. However, many companies decide against it for budgetary reasons. A decision that is often regretted afterwards! But why?   

Quite simply because it increases the risk of wasting time, money and resources.  

• Higher costs due to later errors:  Without PoC, errors could only be detected at a stage when they are much more costly. For example, poorly integrated software could later require expensive adjustments or even a completely new development.  

• Waste of time: Projects without a clear feasibility check run the risk of ending in dead ends. Teams could spend months or years working on an idea that turns out to be impractical.   

• Loss of trust: If a project fails because feasibility has not been tested, this can cause lasting damage to the trust of investors, partners and internal teams.   

• Technological risks: Unforeseen challenges could arise, especially with innovative technologies. Without a PoC, these risks remain undetected and cause problems during the project.   
  

Are you already facing one of these challenges? Let's talk about it and get your project back on track together!   

So, it's clear that a PoC is helpful! But what's the best way to start?  Professional implementation is the be-all and end-all!  It therefore makes the most sense to bring in external consultants.   This is because working with external experts can optimize and simplify the PoC process due to:    

• Specialization and experience: external consultants have experience with similar projects and can apply best practices. This reduces errors and speeds up the process.   

• Neutrality: An external provider looks at projects objectively and without operational blindness. This promotes more realistic assessments and decisions.   

• Access to specialized resources: Partners often have advanced tools, software or methods that make the PoC more efficient.   

• Flexibility: External providers can be engaged specifically for the PoC without permanently tying up internal resources.  

Whether with or without an external companion, this is the best way to proceed with the proof of concept:   

Steps to success

 Objectives, planning and scope:   

• Clearly define which aspects are to be examined:  Should technical feasibility be demonstrated? Is it about validating market acceptance or specific integration tests?  

• Formulate measurable criteria for the success of the PoC.   

• Scope: Clearly outline which functions and scenarios will be tested. What is included in the PoC and what is excluded?  

• Resources: Identify which technologies, tools, data and expertise are required.  

• Timeframe: Set a realistic timeline and build in buffers for unforeseen challenges.   

• Budget: Calculate the costs for development, testing and external support.  

Develop a prototype:  

• Develop a functional, minimal prototype (minimum viable product, MVP) that implements the core idea.  

• Concentrate on the most important requirements to keep the PoC manageable.  

• Document development progress and any challenges that arise.  

• Carry out tests: Test the prototype under conditions that are as realistic as possible, e.g. with actual users or real data.  

• Collect qualitative and quantitative data to evaluate performance and acceptance. Respond to test results and optimize the prototype. 

Analyze results:  

• Compare the test results with the defined objectives and success criteria.  

• Identify strengths, weaknesses and risks of the concept.  

• Create a detailed report that summarizes the findings and opportunities for improvement.  

• Provide a clear recommendation as to whether the project should move to the next phase, be modified or discontinued.  

• Discuss the results with stakeholders and decide together on the next steps, e.g. full implementation or further testing.  
  

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