Proof of Concept approach in Problem Solving

By now, you all are surely well acquainted with all the steps of the four-step problem-solving approach. In the last few segments, you learnt how to frame and analyse a problem, analyse the potential solutions and draft an action plan to implement them. After successfully carrying out all these steps, there arises a question. Is there a particular approach recommended to implement the solution? The answer is yes. 

In this segment, our subject-matter expert, Prashanth Balasubramanian, will discuss this approach in detail. Let’s get started!

With the help of relevant and simple examples, our subject-matter expert enlightened us with the details of the Proof of Concept (POC) approach, which is recommended to implement a solution. Let’s summarise the key learnings from the video:

• The proof of concept approach: 
  • Maximises your ability to learn and assimilate feedback
  • Helps in the optimum utilisation of time, money and efforts
  • Helps in validating the usability and feasibility of the solution

With the help of the food vendor example, our subject-matter expert explained the differences between a random selection of solutions and the pilot project, which is often referred to as the proof of concept. These two approaches are described in the table provided below.

• As mentioned in the video, the proof of concept approach can also be applied in your professional life.
• Our subject-matter expert also talked about the types of feedback, which are as follows: 
  • Qualitative feedback: It lends data points and supporting arguments as you gather evidence to make refinements to the project. It is typically done by interviewing and taking surveys of the users.
  • Quantitative feedback: It lends specificity and irrefutability to the evidence gathered to make refinements. It is done through continuous measurement of metrics and KPIs, or through surveys.
• Customer satisfaction is vital to enhancing and boosting your business. Therefore, it is necessary to gauge customer satisfaction. This can be done in the following two ways: 
  • Asking random customers for qualitative feedback
  • Providing a detailed feedback form to all the customers for quantitative feedback
• The program management office is the organisation that ensures that a program or a group of projects are successfully implemented.
• The different elements of the program management office are as follows:
  • Steering committee: This is responsible for defining, approving and guiding the project. It serves as the head of the program.
  • Program management office: It ensures goal alignment, reviews progress and identifies the problems that arise in the process of projects.
  • Workstreams: These are the people who are operationally responsible for their specific package of the work related to the assigned projects. They drive the day-to-day workings of the project.
  • Other resources: These are accountable for providing expert inputs on project specifics.
• The project management office can be compared to a human body as explained by the subject-matter expert. Here is a diagram for your better understanding:

In the next session, you will learn about the factors that facilitate ‘continuous enablement’ of the solution in the problem-solving process. 

Additional Resources:

• Proof of Concept: Definition & Best Practices