You have an idea. You’ve validated it. Now it’s time to build. But where do you start? This guide walks you through the journey from concept to launched MVP.
What is an MVP?
A Minimum Viable Product is:
- The smallest version of your product that delivers value
- A tool for learning, not impressing
- A starting point, not the final destination
An MVP is NOT:
- A prototype or mockup
- A feature-complete product
- Something you’re embarrassed to launch
The MVP Mindset
Think Learning, Not Building
Your MVP exists to test hypotheses:
- Will people use this?
- Will they pay for it?
- What features matter most?
Embrace Imperfection
Reid Hoffman said it best: “If you’re not embarrassed by the first version of your product, you’ve launched too late.”
Step 1: Define Your Core Value Proposition
Answer one question: What’s the single most important thing your product does?
Everything else is secondary. Your MVP should nail this one thing.
Examples:
- Dropbox: Sync files across devices
- Airbnb: Book someone’s spare room
- Uber: Get a ride with your phone
Step 2: List All Features (Then Cut 80%)
Write down every feature you’ve imagined. Now categorize them:
- Must-have: Required for core value proposition
- Should-have: Important but not critical
- Nice-to-have: Can wait for v2
Your MVP includes only the must-haves.
Step 3: Choose Your Tech Stack
For most MVPs, simpler is better:
No-Code Options
- Bubble: Full web apps without code
- Webflow: Beautiful marketing sites
- Airtable: Database-backed tools
Low-Code Options
- Next.js + Vercel: Fast web apps
- Supabase: Backend as a service
- Stripe: Payments made easy
Step 4: Set a Timeline
Parkinson’s Law: Work expands to fill the time available. Set aggressive deadlines:
- 2 weeks: Landing page + waitlist
- 4 weeks: Functional MVP
- 6 weeks: Launched with paying customers
Step 5: Build in Public
Share your progress:
- Weekly updates on Twitter/LinkedIn
- Behind-the-scenes on your blog
- Progress posts on IdeaBase
Building in public creates accountability and attracts early users.
Step 6: Launch Before You’re Ready
Signs you should launch:
- Core functionality works
- One person could get value from it
- You’re making excuses to delay
Launch platforms to consider:
- Product Hunt
- Hacker News
- Reddit communities
- Twitter/LinkedIn
- IdeaBase discover feed
Step 7: Measure What Matters
Track these metrics:
- Activation: Do users complete the core action?
- Retention: Do they come back?
- Revenue: Will they pay?
Ignore vanity metrics like page views and signups.
Common MVP Mistakes
Building Too Much
The #1 mistake. When in doubt, cut features.
Building in Isolation
Get feedback early and often. Don’t wait for the “big reveal.”
Ignoring Feedback
Your users know what they want. Listen to them.
Conclusion
Your MVP is a learning tool, not a masterpiece. Build fast, launch early, and iterate based on real user feedback.
Share your MVP progress on IdeaBase and connect with builders who can help you ship faster.