Minimum Viable Product
Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is a product development strategy where a new product is built with the minimum set of features needed to satisfy early adopters and gather validated learning about the product's viability. It focuses on releasing a basic version quickly to test core assumptions, reduce development waste, and iterate based on real user feedback. This approach helps teams avoid overbuilding and ensures resources are invested in features that users actually value.
Developers should learn MVP methodology when working in startups, agile environments, or any project where validating product-market fit is critical before full-scale development. It's essential for reducing risk, saving time and money, and enabling data-driven decisions by testing hypotheses with real users early in the lifecycle. Use cases include launching new software products, testing feature ideas, or pivoting existing products based on market feedback.