Proof of concept in software development is a controversial topic. The person that came up with a software idea is usually convinced of its relevance. And stakeholders usually don't want to spend time on something that is not even going to be included in the final product.
Information Architects are the Architects of Understanding. They “help users to understand where they are, what they’ve found, what to expect, and what’s around.”
Information Architecture
Information Architecture (4 Parts) — UX Knowledge Base Sketches
Knowledge
Stakeholder Interview — UX Knowledge Base Sketches
At the beginning of a UX research and design project a Stakeholder Interview should be conducted to find out the Business Goals, Existing Research including User Research, Competitors and Technological Limitations.
Interviews
Stakeholder Interview — UX Knowledge Base Sketches