Want to test your business idea but unsure whether to invest in its full development? The MVP (Minimum Viable Product) method allows you to test your idea on real users with minimal costs. In this article, we’ll explore how to create and test an MVP, gather feedback, and adapt the product to real market needs.

🔹 What is an MVP and Why is it Important?

MVP (Minimum Viable Product) is the simplest version of a product that delivers core value to users. By creating an MVP, you avoid spending resources on full-scale development and instead validate the product hypothesis.

  • Saves money and time on launch
  • Helps test market demand before making large investments
  • Allows you to adapt the product to real market needs
  • Reduces risks and increases chances of success

Example: Dropbox initially launched a single demo video showcasing the future product, gathering thousands of beta signups before starting development.

🔹 How to Create an MVP: Step-by-Step Process

1️⃣ Define Your Product’s Core Value

What is the most important aspect of your product? What main problem does it solve? An MVP should highlight one key advantage rather than trying to be everything for everyone.

Example: In its early days, Uber simply allowed users to order a taxi via an app — no complex pricing plans, subscriptions, or extra features.

2️⃣ Identify Your Target Audience

Determine who needs your product and where to find your first users. This could be forums, social media, or niche communities.

Example: Airbnb started by posting listings on Craigslist, testing demand for apartment rentals.

3️⃣ Create a Prototype or Test Version

An MVP can take different forms:

  • A landing page with a product description
  • A clickable prototype in Figma
  • A beta version with minimal features
  • A chatbot instead of a full app

Example: Zappos tested its online shoe store idea by simply posting images of shoes it didn’t yet have in stock. If a customer placed an order, the founder bought the shoes in a store and shipped them manually.

4️⃣ Gather Feedback and Analyze Data

An MVP should answer the main question: Are people willing to pay for your product?

  • The number of users who submitted an inquiry
  • The number of people who signed up for the beta version
  • User reviews and feedback
  • Repeat engagements (do people return to the product?)

5️⃣ Improve the Product Based on Data

If users are willing to pay — develop the MVP by adding valuable features. If not, identify the issue: pricing, insufficient value, or the wrong audience?

Example: Instagram started as a location-based app, but users were more interested in its photo filters. The team eventually focused on photo content — leading to massive success.

💡 Conclusion

  • Don’t build a product unless you’re sure the market needs it.
  • MVP is your main tool for idea validation.
  • Minimal investment + user feedback = high chances of success.