Product Strategy: When to Build a Proof of Concept vs. a Minimum Viable Product

A proof of concept (PoC) is designed to answer a specific technical or operational question, such as whether an unfamiliar system can handle required data volume. In contrast, a minimum viable product (MVP) tests whether a specific user group will adopt a solution enough to form a sustainable business. A PoC should be narrowly scoped, time-boxed, and disposable to retire a major feasibility risk. An MVP should be the smallest complete workflow that provides real value to a user, enabling observation of their behavior. The choice between starting with a PoC or an MVP depends on whether the biggest uncertainty is technical feasibility or user desirability and business viability.