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Software Engineering vocabulary · Architecture, Design Patterns and Graphics

Proof of concept

Meaning in software engineering, with examples

nounCommon term

In software engineering, proof of concept means: A small, quick version of an idea, built only to show that it can work technically before the team spends time building it properly.

In Turkish: kavram kanıtı, deneme prototipi

How it is used

Usually shortened to PoC or POC. A proof of concept is often thrown away afterwards; turning it directly into production code is a common mistake. People build or put together a PoC and then present the results.

Example sentences

  1. Let's build a quick proof of concept to see if the library can handle Turkish characters.

  2. The proof of concept worked, but it needs a proper design before it goes anywhere near production.

Common collocations

  • build a proof of concept
  • PoC phase
  • throwaway proof of concept
  • proof-of-concept results
  • design docA document written before building something big that explains the problem, the proposed solution, the other options considered and their trade-offs, so others can review it.
  • over-engineeringMaking a solution more complex than the problem needs, for example adding layers, options or flexibility for future needs that may never come.
  • architectureThe high-level structure of a software system: its main parts, how they communicate with each other and the key technical decisions behind them.
  • trade-offA situation where getting more of one good thing means accepting less of another, such as speed versus accuracy or simplicity versus flexibility.

This word in other fields

The same English word can have a different meaning in another field:

More terms: Architecture, Design Patterns and Graphics

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