What is the difference between PoC and MVP?

A PoC (Proof of Concept) aims to confirm whether a particular concept or idea is technically possible and feasible. An MVP (Minimum Viable Product), on the other hand, is intended to deliver an actual product with sufficient functionality to solve a real problem.

If you work with product design and development, you are probably well-acquainted with these terms. Others might be less certain about what each one means. In this article, we will explore the differences and similarities between what can be considered two innovation methods or strategies in processes related to product development.

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What is an MVP - Minimum Viable Product?

• The goal of an MVP is to test and validate the product idea in the market with minimal resources and investments.

• An MVP contains all the necessary core features and functionalities that meet the primary needs of early users.

• This is a fully functional product capable of interesting and attracting early users.

• With an MVP, the team can gather feedback and measure user engagement. In this way, they can collect valuable data that can guide future iterations and improvements.

• The advantage of an MVP is that it balances value creation for the user with the project's viability, while minimizing development costs and time-to-market.

• MVP requires more time and resources compared to a PoC, but it is still a minimal investment in terms of validating the product's viability.

• The benefits of using an MVP include being time-efficient and risk-reducing.

• MVP gives you the opportunity to gain early insight into the market and market needs. You can start building a user community, creating awareness, and establishing yourself in the market before competitors.

• The MVP approach facilitates iterative development. You can gradually add new features and improve the product based on user feedback and market changes.

• MVP allows you to engage users early in the process. This can create an emotional bond between users and the product, and user feedback becomes part of the product development.

• MVP provides a platform for rapid learning. It helps your team understand the market, user needs, and the product's strengths and weaknesses early in the process.
  

What is a PoC - Proof of Concept?

• A PoC allows you to assess whether it is worth building the product in the first place.

• A PoC involves everything that helps you measure the feasibility, viability, and attractiveness of a product. It should assist you in securing funding, gathering resources, and demonstrating why investing in the concept might be worthwhile.

• A PoC does not need to be functional at all. The purpose is to showcase the core of the concept.

• On a smaller scale, a PoC can be seen as a demonstration or experiment that attempts to verify the potential and feasibility of an idea.

• Many use PoCs to test a product or the functional aspects of various technologies. The goal is to obtain useful findings that allow for evaluating whether it is appropriate to invest significant resources in developing the idea.

• With a PoC, the aim is to validate key hypotheses or demonstrate specific features of an idea. The goal is to prove that the concept is possible and has the potential to solve a problem or meet a need.

• A PoC is often directed at stakeholders, investors, and potential partners to showcase the viability and potential of a concept.

• The advantages of using a PoC include requiring less time and resources compared to a full-fledged solution.

Similarities between MVP and PoC

• Both utilize user-centered design principles.

• Feedback and insights from users play a crucial role in shaping the product's design.

• Both embrace an iterative process in product development.

• Insights and feedback from users or stakeholders drive the development.

Differences between MVP and PoC

• A PoC often targets internal decision-makers or potential investors to demonstrate the feasibility of the concept. An MVP is more focused on the end user to validate the product and its value in real-life situations. The methods reduce risk in slightly different ways.

• A PoC helps minimize technological risk early on. An MVP primarily focuses on reducing market and business-related risks. An MVP reduces risk by ensuring that the product meets an actual need before larger investments are made.

• Both PoC and MVP require an investment of time and resources, but the scope and depth of commitment are generally greater for an MVP, which is intended to be ready for market use.

Does your business have an idea or a potential product you want to explore? Then it is definitely worth considering whether a Proof of Concept (PoC) or a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is a strategic approach. A PoC can often be completed in just a few days or weeks, depending on the complexity of the project. If you want to create a more innovative culture in your company, these are relatively simple methods that are both inspiring and useful for employees to participate in. Feel free to contact us for an informal chat.