{"id":4999,"date":"2023-07-18T19:30:00","date_gmt":"2023-07-18T23:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/canny.io\/blog\/?p=4999"},"modified":"2026-03-10T21:04:38","modified_gmt":"2026-03-11T01:04:38","slug":"what-is-mvp","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/canny.io\/blog\/what-is-mvp\/","title":{"rendered":"What is a minimum viable product (MVP)? A complete guide with examples"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In the product world, MVP stands for Minimum Viable Product. It’s a bit like a teaser for your big idea. You show a basic version to people, see if they like it, and then decide where to go next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

MVPs are usually driven by a product manager. They’re the ones making sure the MVP is just right, balancing what users want and what the business needs. They also identify what the base level of functionality they need to deliver is.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The MVP approach is associated with the lean startup method<\/a>. It’s about building a little, checking how it performs, learning, and then making it better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Two big names often linked with the MVP concept are Eric Ries and Jeff Bezos. Ries gave us “The Lean Startup,” a guide many of us turn to. And Bezos? He launched Amazon with a simple MVP, selling books online. Now, it’s a giant in the shopping world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How can MVPs help you grow your business?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let’s jump into the world of MVPs and find out!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Understanding the MVP concept<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The term MVP is incredibly important in product management. It’s a concept that’s reshaped how we approach product development. It helps product managers know if they’re on the right track from the get-go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let’s look at a few topics that will help you better understand MVPs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Defining MVPs and their purpose in product development<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The MVP is like the skeleton of your product idea. It’s the bare bones, the essentials that make it function. Why start so basic? Well, it’s all about validation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s costly to pour resources into a full-fledged product. Starting with an MVP helps you gauge if there’s genuine interest. The MVP allows you to test the waters, gauge interest, and gather invaluable feedback.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

But it’s not just about saving resources. The MVP approach fosters a culture of adaptability. By starting small, teams can pivot more easily. They can adapt to user feedback and market changes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It’s a dynamic way of product development that values learning and iteration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

MVPs are often used to describe the most basic versions of new software. This is definitely a type of MVP. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

But, there are many types of MVPs and some don\u2019t require any coding at all. An MVP could be as simple as asking users to join a waiting list for a new product. You could manually deliver a service to see if there’s product market fit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The type of MVP you choose depends on what you need to learn. We\u2019ll discuss the different types you can choose later in this guide. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Using the MVP approach in software and app development<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In the tech world, MVPs are a staple. From mobile apps to complex software solutions, the MVP approach is a favorite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Start with a basic version, get it out to users, and then refine based on feedback. It sounds simple, but it’s a process that requires keen attention to user needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here’s an example. A budding social media app might start with just posting and commenting features. As users engage, developers might see a demand for direct messaging or story features. The MVP approach ensures the product evolves in tandem with user desires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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