MVP - What's it Actually?

Can an MVP version of a Product help a customer get some initial set of features "quickly”?

Well, may be. It all depends on what are the initial set of features that has been delivered. People in the Agile world always have their own views about what a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) really is. Different people have different opinions – it's like asking ten friends for their favorite ice cream flavor and getting ten different answers! Some folks think an MVP is just a clickable prototype, while others believe it's an app with almost all the features.

Now, for the die-hard fans of Agile methodology, they see MVPs as the most basic working versions of a product. So, when we talk about an MVP, we're talking about a straightforward version of a product that can perform many of the functions the full-blown version of the product intends to do, even though it's not quite as fancy or large-scale. Think of it like a first draft of an article. Just like fully developed product, an MVP version also gather user data, but its main purpose is to show how users interact with it. This helps developers and business leaders understand how the final app will perform in the real world and make necessary changes while it's still affordable to do so.

It's important not to confuse an MVP with a Proof of Concept (POC) or a prototype. An MVP is not a POC or prototype. MVPs are often released for actual use so that users can start using the product for their real business needs. This way, developers and business leaders can get valuable feedback and improve the product based on how it's being used in real-life situations. It's a starting point – like having the core ingredients of a recipe before adding the spices and toppings. The goal is to have something functional that can be tested and improved upon, paving the way for a more refined and fully-featured product in the future.

Hence, in many software development projects, the MVP approach is followed to release a version of a Product in a shortest possible time. As said earlier, developers in an Agile team see MVPs as apps that give teams the most insight for the least amount of effort. As most of the complex software development projects are iterative, each iteration provides an improved version from the previous version by adapting to the needs of the end user.

Evolution of MVP Approach: In the 1980s, the software development landscape underwent a transformation driven by dissatisfaction with the traditional waterfall approach. This linear methodology, dividing projects into stages without user involvement until the end, often led to unexpected outcomes. Poor communication between business users and developers resulted in poorly designed products, exacerbated by the slow pace of development.

As digital disruption accelerated change, the need for a more adaptive approach became evident. Agile methodology emerged, challenging the long race of software development with shorter sprints or releases. MVP approach has gained momentum as Agile way of delivering software products gained popularity.

The MVP Mindset: Now, let's understand who will decide which features will be delivered as part of an MVP? The key thing here is that that an MVP version of a product should not become just a "working" software without adding any value to its users and the "Value" will be delivered by business benefits that has been delivered. Hence, theoretically, the "business needs" should define what is to be delivered as part of MVP. If this needs to happen, stakeholders should have that unique mindset that is aligned with agile principles and iterative way of delivery.

Many times, adding features to the MVP can complicate matters, potentially transforming the Agile project into a traditional waterfall approach. This is where the MVP mindset comes into play. Regularly showcasing functionality, demonstrating progress, and excluding unnecessary exceptions are crucial for the success of Agile approach and for the success of MVP delivery. Business stakeholders should understand that requested features beyond the MVP scope will be added later with the same velocity.

The MVP mindset requires a fundamental change in thinking. Rather than seeking all features upfront, users are encouraged to embark on a journey where functionality is showcased regularly. Exceptions should be carefully considered, with a focus on "data-driven" and "business needs" based decisions and prioritizing automation based on costs and benefits.

Hence, if followed correctly, the approach of MVP helps in promoting adaptability, user involvement, and a focus on essential features. Adopting this approach increases the chances of a successful project by aligning development with user needs and efficiently managing resources.

What's your experience with MVP approach? How has it helped you? Do comment.