A Proof of Concept (POC), sometimes called a pilot or trial, is a structured technical evaluation where a prospect uses the product in a limited, time-boxed context to validate that it solves their specific problem before committing to a full purchase. A well-run POC has defined success criteria agreed upon before it starts, an executive sponsor, a clear timeline, and a mutual action plan for the path from POC completion to contract. POCs that lack success criteria often drag on indefinitely without reaching a decision.