Before you start to prototype your idea(s), you need to prove the concept.
A proof of concept is a demonstration of an idea which is usually still incomplete. This could be a verbal, written or visual demonstration, and is used to establish whether the idea is likely to work.
The idea must be formed enough that it can be communicated and tested, but not so locked down as to be inflexible.
It is also important here to start thinking about the sustainability and business model for your idea.
How?
Select a group of people who will be able to offer you the insight required to prove the concept.
You will need to involve:
- The decision-makers, the people who need to give you permission to take this idea into prototyping and beyond.
- Investors or commissioners who would know if there are resources to develop the idea, what kind of regulation might be expected, how saturated the market is, and what kind of demand there has been for similar products, as well as what sort of competition exists.
Once you have proved the concept with the relevant people, then the prototyping can begin.
