pol-probe

A Proof of Life probe is a narrow, disposable validation experiment used to test a risky product hypothesis before building production software. It ensures teams surface harsh truths early while keeping ideas cheap and scoped.

To document a validation experiment, articulate a specific falsifiable hypothesis, the risk to eliminate, success criteria, timeline, tools, and a disposal plan within the PoL Probe template to capture the reconnaissance mission.

Use disposable probes when product teams need to test a risky hypothesis before building production software. They apply to feasibility checks, task-focused tests, narrative prototypes, synthetic data simulations, or vibe-coded probes.

You can run five probe flavors for product risk validation: feasibility checks, task-focused tests, narrative prototypes, synthetic data simulations, or vibe-coded probes. Each matches specific scenarios to eliminate targeted risks.

To frame a falsifiable hypothesis for a feasibility check, capture one narrow question and the specific risk to eliminate. This keeps the experiment focused on testing data integration risks before real development.

Prototype theater happens when teams build elaborate prototypes without testing risky assumptions. Avoid it by documenting targeted Proof of Life probes that commit to a disposal plan and narrow scope to surface harsh truths cheaply.