There has long been a buzz in the IT world about the concept of MVP (Minimum Viable Product). Those planning to create their applications or IT systems should know what MVPs are.
Despite this, creating an MVP is not easy, and errors can lead to detrimental consequences for your business. Throughout this article, we will explore the top ten mistakes to avoid and how to create a Minimum Viable Product. If you are interested in creating an MVP, read this article!
1. “MVP is not for me”
Some people think MVP is only for big companies. Nothing could be further from the truth. Anyone who wants to see if their idea for an application or system has potential, should create an MVP.
It is wise to start software development with the simplest version of the product, which contains only the key features, also known as the MVP.
Keep in mind, however, that the MVP must be scalable to avoid costly changes in the future.
2. Leaving out the market analysis and research
Market research is one of the first steps in MVP development. It cannot be skipped, as it is crucial to the project’s success.
Business analysis can verify the validity of an idea, suggest solutions, and highlight possible risks. Getting help from a company with extensive experience creating MVPs may be a wise move.
3. Treating the MVP as an interim solution or product
MVPs are not temporary products but the first steps on the road to a full-fledged product’s success.
Architecture design is the foundation on which subsequent parts are built. It is, therefore, critical to take into account the possibility of easy scaling and scalability at this stage.
In order to accomplish this, you need experienced programmers, testers, and project managers to coordinate software development.
4. Failure to give testing sufficient weight
Make sure your users don’t suffer from discouragement at the hands of application errors. Every application should be thoroughly tested before being made available to users.
Programmers’ tests aren’t always enough, so hire expert testers to ensure the product is top-notch.
5. Ignoring feedback
The final success of a product depends significantly on user feedback. Hence, listening to your target audience’s criticism is vital to adapt and enhance it.
A variety of tools are available for obtaining feedback, including:
- surveys,
- usability tests,
- market research.
Don’t ignore users’ opinion. Giving away your product faster and gaining their loyalty is possible with the tips gathered from the market.
6. Neglecting the process of implementation
It is one thing to create an MVP, but it is another to implement it properly. In most cases, there is a tendency to ignore the strategic and thoughtful stages of implementing a product on the market and focus instead on developing the following stages.
Meanwhile, the implementation process is the key to success and business goals. Putting an MVP on the market requires attention to the following elements:
- marketing strategy,
- product promotion,
- technical support for users,
- definition of success criteria.
7. Lack of proper product management
Whether creating a brand-new product or developing an existing one, it is worthwhile to ensure proper product management.
Plan and implement procedures that will allow the team to work and manage the project effectively.
Agile methods, such as Scrum or Kanban, can help you manage your projects efficiently and smoothly.
8. Focus on technology rather than users
Another common mistake is to focus on the technological aspects of the project at the expense of user needs and requirements.
During the MPV development process, programming is just the tip of the iceberg. First and foremost, focus should be placed on what will ultimately be presented to users.
It is a good idea to conduct the following before working on the MVP:
- research the market,
- analyze the competition,
- learn about the needs of the target users.
This way you will be able to develop a product that meets the needs and expectations of your customers.
9. A lack of testing and monitoring during the launch of the product
Regular testing and monitoring of the product is essential not only during development but also after release!
By testing, you will catch possible errors and problems. By monitoring, you will keep track of user behavior and adjust it to meet their needs.
10. No development plan
From the beginning, it is important to realize that the product will always need to be developed and improved. MVP is just the beginning of the journey.
Hence, it’s so incredibly crucial to prepare a development plan in line with your business goals and user expectations. By doing so, you will be able to add more features to your product and expand its capabilities.
Summing it up
The creation of an MVP is a vital step in the development of any project. Despite this, many companies make mistakes that negate the effort they put into MVP design.
With the right tools and approach, costly mistakes can be avoided, and success can be achieved. It may be worthwhile to hire a third party that has experience with MVP creation, business analysis, and customized software development.
If you’re seeking an experienced technology partner for your project, Solwit’s specialists would be happy to help you.
Get in touch with us and set up a free consultation to work out the next steps together.
