1. Identifying the First Use Case

The first use case is the primary problem your product will solve.

1. Focus on real user pain points, not “nice-to-have” ideas.
2. Ask: Who benefits most? What is the simplest way to deliver value?
3. Avoid trying to solve every problem at once; MVP is about proof of concept.
   

2. Picking the Core Value

Every MVP must deliver one clear core value.

1. This is the reason users will choose your product.
   
2. Define it in a single sentence: “Our product helps [user] achieve [outcome] quickly/easily.”
   
3. Everything in the MVP should support this core value.

Rule: If it doesn’t support the core value, it’s probably not MVP material.

3. Selecting Essential vs Supporting Features

1. Essential Features: Must exist for the MVP to deliver its core value.
   
2. Supporting Features: Nice-to-have enhancements that can come later.

Tip: Always start with the bare minimum. Adding supporting features too early increases complexity and delays learning.

4. Scoping Tightly

Scope tightly to avoid unnecessary work:

1. Limit the number of features to those required for testing the core value.
   
2. Set clear boundaries on what the MVP will not do.
   
3. Write requirements with precision to prevent scope creep.
   

Rule: Every extra feature delays feedback and increases risk.

5. Avoiding Overbuilding

Overbuilding is a common trap. Remember:

1. MVP is about learning, not perfection.
   
2. Test assumptions quickly with minimal effort.
   
3. Features can be added in later iterations based on real user feedback.
   

Mindset: Build just enough to validate value.

6. Thinking in Phases

MVP is the first phase of your product journey.

1. Phase 1: Deliver core value to early users.
   
2. Phase 2+: Add supporting features, scale, and refine based on feedback.
   
3. Always plan what comes next, but execute one phase at a time.

Key Insight: Thinking in phases keeps development focused, reduces waste, and accelerates learning.