Stage Description and Characteristics
In this stage, founders are designing the core features of the product or service. They have early idea validation through customer discovery and are working on creating a minimum viable product (MVP) to test their concept with real users. Key characteristics include:
Focused on turning the validated idea into a minimum viable product (MVP) with core features Developing wireframes, mockups, and user flows for the MVP Prioritizing and refining features based on target customer needs Collaborating with developers and designers to create a feasible MVP design
Key Challenges to be Solved
Translating the validated idea into a functional MVP design Prioritizing essential features while maintaining simplicity and usability Selecting the appropriate technology stack and development methodology Designing a potential product that solves a real customer problem based on early customer discovery feedback Creating a minimum viable product (MVP) design
Key Milestones to Reach
Documented MVP Plan & UX Design: The MVP design should be focused on providing the user with the best possible experience. It should be simple, easy to use, and solve the customer's problem in the most efficient way possible. Documented feature set: Based on the MVP plan, the startup should define the feature set for the product. This should be a list of the essential features that will be included in the initial version of the product. Documented technical requirements outline: The startup should identify the technical requirements for building the product. This should include the programming languages and tools needed to develop the product. Have the team and resources needed for development clearly defined: The startup should identify the team and resources needed to develop the MVP. This could include developers, designers, and project managers. Completion of MVP design, including wireframes and mockups Documented technical requirements and technology stack
Progress and Growth Tracking
Interest level of potential users in MVP design Features prioritized based on user feedback Go-2-Market Strategy Defined and Documented (1st Draft)
Triggers to Graduate to next stage
A detailed and validated MVP design A clear understanding of user needs and behavior A defined product roadmap A detailed user experience design A well defined Value Proposition based on the Value Proposition Canvas Should have all of the above completed in 6 months Startup Support for this Stage
Value Proposition Development: Identifying the unique benefits your product offers to customers Mapping out customer needs, pain points, and desired outcomes using tools like the Value Proposition Canvas Refining your value proposition based on customer feedback and market research
Creating a visually appealing and easy-to-use interface for your MVP Ensuring a smooth user experience by considering factors like navigation, layout, and accessibility Testing and iterating on designs based on user feedback and industry best practices
Product Feature Prioritization: Assisting in determining the essential features to include in the MVP design Helping to prioritize features based on customer needs, market demands, and resource constraints Providing guidance on balancing the simplicity of the MVP with the need to demonstrate value to potential users
Technical Feasibility Assessment: Evaluating the technical feasibility of the MVP design based on available technologies and platforms Identifying potential technical challenges or limitations that may impact the product development process Recommending strategies to overcome technical obstacles and ensure a smooth transition from design to development