From Concept to Model: How Collaborator Input Shaped Proof of Concept’s Operating Framework

In redefining how organizations tackle human capital challenges, Proof of Concept  embraced a structured collaboration approach rooted in co-creation. Through Sprint 0, we tested, refined, and validated our operating model with diverse thought leaders, ensuring that our framework aligns with real-world problem-solving needs. This whitepaper explores the Proof of Concept methodology and how it was leveraged to develop a scalable, dynamic operating model based on participant insights.

1. The Proof of Concept Approach: Love the Problem

At the core of PoC’s methodology is a commitment to deep problem understanding before solutioning. A philosophy we call "Love the Problem." This ensures that challenges are fully explored, contextualized, and validated before action is taken.

To test our own model, we applied this principle internally through Sprint 0, where we invited collaborators to co-design PoC’s operating framework, participant roles, and engagement processes.

Key Objectives of Sprint 0

• Define and validate PoC’s collaboration-driven sprint model.

• Establish a structured recruitment, vetting, and onboarding process for collaborators.

• Identify key personas and their roles in the sprint ecosystem.

• Develop a repeatable process for problem submission, refinement, and execution.

  
  

2. Co-Creation in Action: How Collaborator Input Shaped the Model

Sprint 0 followed PoC’s structured sprint process, incorporating real-time feedback loops to iterate and refine the model. The following key areas were directly shaped by collaborator insights:

A. Designing the Collaboration Studio

Insight: Without a structured space for collaboration, idea overload would dilute problem quality.Outcome: We designed the Collaboration Studio: a digital workspace where problems are submitted, refined, and prepared for structured sprints.

B. Participant Personas & Engagement Strategy

Insight: Participants play distinct roles in problem-solving and require tailored engagement strategies.Outcome: We formalized six key personas with defined responsibilities, ensuring clear role expectations:

1. Collaborators – Define problems pre-sprint.

2. Sprint Champions – Actively working on solving challenges.

3. Collaboration Architects – Lead sprints and define structures.

4. Proof Review Committee – Vet problems and participants.

5. Sponsors – Align resources and strategic interests.

6. Subject Matter Experts - Industry resources leveraged for their deep expertise

   
   

C. Structuring the Sprint Execution Process

Insight: A flexible but structured sprint process was necessary to accommodate different problem complexities.Outcome: We established three sprint models:

• Basic (2 weeks, 4 hours/week)

• Intermediate (4 weeks, 6 hours/week)

• Advanced (6 weeks, 6 hours/week, includes design component)

Each follows a repeatable four-phase execution framework:

1. Organization – Define scope, onboard team.

2. Brainstorm – Develop insights, explore solutions.

3. Take Action – Execute experiments, refine ideas.

4. Summarize & Accept – Document findings, publish outputs.

   
   

D. Problem Submission & Vetting Framework

Insight: Without a clear framework, problem statements risk being vague or unsolvable.Outcome: We developed a structured problem submission form and framing checklist to ensure:

• Problems are specific, actionable, and solvable within a sprint.

• Impact and stakeholder considerations are well-defined.

• Prior attempts and expected success metrics are documented.

A Proof Review Committee now vets problems, ensuring sprint readiness.

3. Sprint 0 Outcomes: A Validated, Scalable Model

By applying the Proof of Concept approach to our own development, we emerged with a tested, scalable operating model that is:

• Collaborator-driven – Designed by those who will use it.

• Structured yet flexible – Supports various sprint formats.

• Repeatable & scalable – Enables expansion across industries.

Key Deliverables from Sprint 0:

✔️ Finalized Operating Model with structured sprint process.

✔️ Collaboration Studio Blueprint for problem refinement.

✔️ Participant Engagement Strategy for long-term involvement.

✔️ Problem Submission & Vetting Process for sprint-ready challenges.

4. The Future: Scaling Proof of Concept

Sprint 0 laid the foundation for Proof of Concept’s methodology—but this is just the beginning. As we launch future sprints, we will continue iterating based on real-world application, ensuring that collaboration remains at the heart of problem-solving.

Next Steps:

• Launch the first problem-focused sprints using the refined model.

• Expand the Collaboration Studio for seamless problem ideation.

• Develop a public sprint repository for shared insights.

We invite organizations, thought leaders, and innovators to join us as we continue to co-create the future of problem-solving.