What is a Proof of Concept?
A Proof of Concept (PoC) is a small working version built to show that a project feasible. It has limited scope, connects the main parts, and runs on real data. You can interact with it directly, and validate it satisfies your needs before investing in a full build.
Why start with a PoC?
Lower cost with a short lead time (1-2 weeks)
Quick validation of AI fit for your data and goals
Reduced project risk before heavy investment
Aligns stakeholders around a working prototype
AI can write code, draft poems and spot tumors, so it is tempting to assume it will magically solve your problem too. A PoC keeps everyone honest. In one to two weeks we answer a single question: can we achieve useful results for this specific use case with the resources and data available? The outcome is a tangible prototype you can show to teammates, stakeholders or investors and use as a springboard for the full‑scale build.
What does a PoC look like?
A PoC is not one size fits all. Depending on the question we need to answer, the deliverable might be:
- Streamlit app: a rapid UI that runs the model on a sample dataset and shows live results.
- Next.js + FastAPI stack: a slimmed‑down front‑end paired with a minimal API backend, wiring up only the key flows and serving as a clickable mock‑up of the final product.
- Test‑script bundle: Python scripts that pull existing data, process it with the model and output metrics or reports.
- n8n automation: a no‑code workflow that pipes real inputs through the model and drops the output into your existing tools (Slack, email, CRM).
Each format is lightweight, secure and built for quick feedback.
What a PoC is not
- Production‑ready: handling all edge cases, improving efficiency and security come later.
- Infinitely scalable: we focus on a limited data slice and a small tester pool.
- A sunk cost: most of the work informs or evolves into the next build, but we stay ready to pivot.
Subsidies to lighten the bill
Depending on your region and project, you may qualify for public funding. Belgian companies can tap into Innoviris Proof of Concept (Brussels‑Capital), Tremplin IA (Wallonia) or VLAIO R&D subsidies (Flanders). We can guide you through the application maze.
Ready to test your idea?
Flowful has helped numerous companies validate their ideas through a PoC. If you have a problem and want to see whether AI can truly crack it, let us build your PoC together.
Book a free scoping call and we will get your PoC on the calendar.
