If you have an idea for an app, it's important to test it to verify its viability before investing time and resources in full development. That's where the MVP (Minimum Viable Product) comes in — a simplified version of your app that allows you to validate your idea with the minimum resources possible.
MVP
Minimum Viable Product
A version of the product with only the essential features, enough to be launched and tested with real users.
The 6 Steps to Create Your MVP
Identify the Problem
Before you start creating an MVP, it's important to have a clear understanding of the problem your app will solve. Do market research to understand user needs and identify opportunities for improvement. Ask yourself: what pain point am I solving? Who are the people experiencing this problem?
Define the MVP Scope
Your MVP scope should include only the essential features and functionalities needed to solve the identified problem. Avoid adding unnecessary or complex features that could distract from your MVP's focus. Use the MoSCoW technique: Must have, Should have, Could have, Won't have.
Create a Simple Design
Your MVP design should be simple and straight to the point. Use tools like Sketch or Figma to create prototypes and user flows. This will help validate your app's usability before investing in development. Don't worry about visual perfection at this stage.
Develop Your MVP
To develop your MVP, you can use development tools like React Native or Flutter, which allow you to create apps for iOS and Android with a single codebase. You can also use low-code development tools like Bubble or Glide, which allow you to create apps without advanced programming skills.
Test and Iterate
Test your MVP with a group of beta users to get feedback on usability and functionality. Use these insights to iterate and improve your MVP before launching it to the general public. Collect quantitative and qualitative data to make informed decisions.
Launch Your MVP
After testing and iterating, it's time to launch to the public. Use platforms like the App Store or Google Play Store to make it available. Don't forget to promote it on social media and other marketing channels to increase visibility and attract your first users.
"If you're not embarrassed by the first version of your product, you've launched too late."
— Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn
The Build-Measure-Learn Cycle
The MVP is part of the Lean Startup methodology, which follows the Build-Measure-Learn cycle. This cycle allows you to validate hypotheses quickly and pivot when necessary.
Lean Startup Cycle
Build
Build the MVP
Measure
Measure the results
Learn
Learn from the data
Iterate
Iterate or pivot
Recommended Tools
There are several tools that can help you create your MVP faster and more cost-effectively:
Figma
Prototyping and interface design
Flutter
Cross-platform development
React Native
Native apps with JavaScript
Bubble
No-code for web apps
Glide
Apps from spreadsheets
Firebase
Backend and analytics
Need help building your MVP?
WD Seven develops MVPs that validate your idea quickly and cost-effectively.
Talk to Our TeamTips for a Successful MVP
Here are some additional tips for creating a successful MVP:
Be clear about your target audience and their specific needs.
Prioritize the features that solve the main problem.
Keep it simple in both design and functionality.
Use low-cost tools to save time and resources.
Test with beta users to get feedback before launch.
Monitor usage data and use it to improve over time.
Conclusion
When creating an MVP for your app, it's important to remember that it's a simplified version of your final product and should not be considered the final solution. The goal is to validate your idea with the minimum resources possible before investing in full development.
Use user feedback and usage data to iterate and improve your app over time. Remember: the MVP is just the beginning of the journey. The real product will be built based on the learnings you gain from your first users.
Summary: MVP in 6 Steps
1. Identify the problem → 2. Define the minimum scope → 3. Create a simple design → 4. Develop quickly → 5. Test and iterate → 6. Launch and learn. Repeat the cycle until you find product-market fit.
