What is a proof of concept?
A proof of concept is typically an experiment that involves making a small prototype to explore a new idea or solution with the goal of obtaining feedback for future design considerations. This typically means that a conceptualized idea of a product is made, which at a minimum will be functional but won't necessarily produce a high level of quality. Meaning, there is no guarantee when it comes to how well the product will work long-term.
There are different mechanisms for carrying out proofs of concepts as well. Passive methods include experimentation and virtual modelling through specialized suites. The active method includes constructing a prototype and experimenting with components such as control sensors and motors.
What is a Minimum Viable Product?
Minimum viable products usually have the same functionality as higher or future development versions. They include simple designs with core features in order to gauge customer feedback and market acceptance before investing heavily. The quality of MVPs is not a priority, so they are usually rough-and-ready. A Minimum Viable Product is the smallest thing you can create to test your idea, service or product in the market. It won't be perfect and there will definitely be bugs in it but this is the best way for startups to validate their ideas with real-world feedback. The MVP will answer two things: "does this solve a problem?" and "does solving this problem provide enough value that people are willing to pay money for it?".
Difference between a Proof of Concept and Minimal Viable Product
Minimum Viable Products are the least help, and typically only include a small number of features. They can involve developing a prototype or something that is minimally viable. On the other hand, Proof of concepts require all the same amount of work but are much more extensive. A proof of concept is used mainly in products development. It's a prototype, or model of the final product that gives conceptual assurance to those working on it. On the other hand, a product with a minimal viable product is much more tactical and has been created for very specific business reasons and needs. The goal with this type of testing is to get customer feedback from early adopters, who are lovers of particular types of products. If there is no substantial reaction or small demand from these groups, then the product can be reconfigured accordingly.
Outsourcing the development of your MVP
By outsourcing a minimum viable product to an external company, you have the opportunity for your MVP to be developed in line with the latest coding standards.
Furthermore, this kind of idea allows you to test their ability and speed in developing your idea.
The benefit of outsourcing is that it offers you great insights into the process of what it takes to get your own MVP off the ground in real-life terms and that you would never know if there is someone else who could save you time and money while still providing a quality outcome by contracting them to build it on your behalf.
At Afrolynx, we have a team of seasoned software developers with combined experience of over 50 years. The team has consulted in the financial, education, mining, logistics as well as insurance sectors, but is also looking for new opportunities to apply their specialised skillsets.
Ready to test-drive your idea and see if it'll fly?
Contact our team by sending an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call us at +27100055545