A narrow build proving that something is technically possible.
Example
Showing the matching algorithm can run in under 200ms at realistic data volumes.
Important
A PoC answers 'can this be built?'. It says nothing at all about whether anyone wants it.
Related terms
Prototype — A non-production mock-up used to test a design or an interaction, usually not built on real infrastructure.
MVP (Minimum Viable Product) — The smallest thing you can build that lets real users get real value and teaches you whether the idea works.
Lessons that explain it
What an MVP actually is — Minimum refers to scope, not quality. A broken product does not test your hypothesis — it tests whether people tolerate bugs. (10 min)