PoC – Proof of Concept

“Proof of Concept” explained briefly and simply:

New systems can significantly increase work efficiency in a company and thus boost profits. Once a new idea has emerged, it is necessary to create a precise concept and begin planning. However, the problem often arises that it is not yet clear at the outset whether it is feasible at all. In some cases, it turns out after some time that this is not possible, either for technical or economic reasons. The further planning has already progressed at this point, the greater the bad investment. For this reason, it makes sense to create a Proof of Concept as early as possible.

This involves a feasibility study. In the IT sector, this is frequently accompanied by the creation of a prototype. As part of the Proof of Concept, this is installed and connected to the various interfaces. In this way, it can quickly be identified whether the project in question is feasible at all. This reduces the risks for decision-makers and also validates the requirements placed on the new system. Furthermore, the PoC helps to estimate the effort required to integrate the new system.

When should a Proof of Concept take place?

When developing new enterprise software, it is often advisable to conduct a Proof of Concept. When this is the case depends on several factors. On the one hand, it is important to consider the complexity of the system. If a new software runs relatively autonomously, the feasibility study is of somewhat lesser importance. However, if it interacts with existing systems via various interfaces, a Proof of Concept is indispensable. In this case, the requirements are so complex that without intensive testing, it is hardly possible to foresee whether the project is viable. Even if the programme places high demands on the hardware or networks, it makes sense to check whether the prerequisites are met.

Choosing the right timing is also of great importance. On the one hand, planning must already be advanced enough that the system requirements and implementation strategy are known. On the other hand, the feasibility study should take place before major investments are made in developing the new systems. In this way, significant bad investments can be prevented.

PoC: a practical example

As the explanations so far have been rather theoretical, they will now be supported by a practical example. This involves the introduction of a new service for data backup. The company has data storage across multiple locations. It wants to back up the data to a central backup server overnight or over the weekend. For such a system to work, it is necessary that the information can be transmitted within the available time.

This depends on the bandwidth of the corporate network. As part of the Proof of Concept, it is therefore necessary to determine the data volumes that normally arise at the respective locations. Afterwards, a test run must be conducted to verify whether the bandwidth is sufficient for transmission within the designated timeframe.

New Media Service GmbH offers these services in the area of PoC

As part of the Proof of Concept, New Media Service GmbH provides comprehensive assistance in conducting this test. It helps build a suitable PoC environment and, if necessary, collaborates with the vendor of the corresponding software solution. Furthermore, it trains a Subject Matter Expert (SME).

This is an employee who takes over ongoing support within the company and serves as a contact person. In addition, New Media Service GmbH conducts independent tests of individual products and assists users with their selection.

If you would like to find out more, you can simply arrange a free and non-binding consultation by contacting us. We would be pleased to inform you on this topic and, if required, handle the implementation and execution for you.