What is the difference between a PoC, a prototype, and an MVP?

Proof of Concept (PoC), Prototype, and Minimal Viable Product (MVP) are terms that are often used interchangeably when discussing the development of a new product or service. However, these concepts have different meanings and objectives, so it's important to understand their differences. In this article, we will explore what each one means and how they relate to each other.

What is Proof of Concept (PoC)?

Proof of Concept (PoC) is an exercise that allow developers to test the feasibility and validity of an idea or concept. It also helps inform decisions about whether it is worth investing time and resources in developing the product further. A PoC usually involves testing a limited version of the product with real users, which helps developers determine if the concept is viable and how it can be improved.

Key Features of a PoC

Proof of concept projects typically have the following features:

• A small proof of concept team, which may include developers, business analysts, and other stakeholders as necessary.
• The proof of concept project is limited in scope and timeline. It should be able to demonstrate a proof of concept in a short period of time (e.g., a couple of weeks).
• The proof of concept project should involve testing with real users and feedback from stakeholders to assess the proof of concept's viability and identify areas that need improvement.
• The proof of concept should be able to showcase the most important features quickly without going into too much detail.

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What is a Prototype?

A prototype is a working model of the product or service that has been created to test the user experience and technical feasibility of an idea. A prototype typically includes a full set of features, but may not include all planned functionality. The purpose of a prototype is to provide proof that the concept can work and will be useful.

Features of a prototype

Prototypes typically have the following features:

• A larger proof of concept team, which may include designers, developers, and other stakeholders as necessary.
• The prototype project is usually more comprehensive than a proof of concept project, taking longer to develop and requiring testers.
• The prototype should include all planned features that will be included in the final product and should be tested by real users to ensure it is usable and effective.
• The prototype should also include enough detail to give stakeholders an accurate picture of the final product.

What is an MVP?

An MVP (Minimal Viable Product) is the most basic version of a product or service. It includes only the features necessary for it to be usable, but not all planned features. An MVP helps validate a concept or idea and allows developers to test the product with real users in order to gain feedback. Saigon Technology, for example, provides MVP development services that help companies quickly launch their products and gather valuable user feedback.

Features of an MVP

MVPs typically have the following features:

• A small proof of concept team, which may include developers and other stakeholders as necessary
• The MVP project is limited in scope and timeline. It should be able to demonstrate proof of concept in a short period of time (e.g., a couple of weeks). 
• The MVP should include only the most essential features necessary to be usable.
• Real users should test the MVP, and feedback from stakeholders should be gathered to identify areas that need improvement or additional features that could be added in later iterations.

The difference between a PoC, a prototype, and an MVP