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.
