An MVP, or Minimum Viable Product, is the simplest version of a product that can be released to early users to validate a concept or solve a core problem with minimal resources.
It typically includes just enough features to:
Test key assumptions
Gain user feedback
Validate market demand
Avoid building unnecessary features
The goal of an MVP is to learn quickly and iterate based on real user input, rather than spending time and money developing a full product that might not meet user needs.
Would you like an example of an MVP in action?
Here are 5 clear steps to take your idea to a Minimum Viable Product (MVP):
1. Define the Problem
- Identify the core problem you’re solving.
- Focus on who your target users are and why this problem matters to them.
- Example: “Busy professionals struggle to find time to plan healthy meals.”
2. Identify the Core Features
- List all possible features, then prioritize only the essentials that solve the main problem.
- Ask: What is the smallest version of this product that delivers real value?
- Example: A meal planning app with just a weekly meal plan and a grocery list generator.
3. Sketch a Solution (Wireframes or Mockups)
- Create simple sketches, wireframes, or clickable prototypes.
- Tools: Figma, Balsamiq, even pen and paper.
- This helps clarify how the product will work before building anything.
4. Build the MVP
- Use no-code tools, a basic web/mobile app, or a manual process to simulate functionality.
- Keep it fast and lean—focus on core functionality, not polish.
- Example: Use Google Forms + Sheets instead of a custom app to test a meal planning service.
5. Launch, Measure & Learn
- Release your MVP to early adopters or testers.
- Collect feedback (via surveys, interviews, analytics).
- Use what you learn to improve or pivot the product.