A proof of concept prototype, sometimes referred to as PoC, is a preliminary, usually aesthetically rough, version of a product that is created to test whether a product idea is feasible as it has been envisioned. IDP will suggest this path when approached by clients with mechanically and/or electronically complex products. It’s not meant to be a final product or fully functional, by any means.
Instead, the main areas of focus are usually:
- Demonstrating the idea and proving key areas of functionality
- Identifying potential technical or design challenges, which can then be documented and determined if they could be solved with further engineering efforts
- Testing and feedback, and highlighting solvable changes or improvements
A recent product that IDP worked on was a new dog training collar. While eventually, it needed to fit into the pet product market, look good, and fit a variety of different sized dogs, none of that mattered if the electronics did not perform their required functions. So, we dove into the more complex electronic engineering, and created a testable proof of concept prototype to determine if the idea was sound. Once we went through the process and determined the system worked, we then focused prototype engineering on the aesthetic design, and polishing the electronic functionality. This was a great success!
A PoC prototype is your way of saying: “Hey, this idea could work—and here’s something that proves it, even if it’s rough around the edges.” It provides our clients with confidence to move forward with further product development efforts.
IDP is a product development company focused on making products function and cost-effective to manufacture. Engage with our company for prototype development services and see your vision become a reality!