When we innovate, pilot, try out something we are better off seeing it as an opportunity to learn rather than a proof of concept.

Even the best of us will sway a test towards success, if we view it as a proof of concept, especially if our reputation, a promotion, etc. is on the line.

Instead, seeing a new trial as a learning opportunity opens the door for the final product to be holistically better than the test. We do not try to fit the test into the actual but instead use the test to more accurately understand the actual.

P.S. I know a proof of concept is often needed but only after pilot or tests are completed and the product is refined thoroughly…