The term "MVP" is overused to the point of confusion. Some teams use it to mean "a rough prototype." Others mean "a complete product with some features removed." Neither is quite right.
A useful MVP answers a single question: will people pay for this? Everything in the build should serve that question. Anything that doesn't answer it is scope creep.
Signs you need an MVP first
- You've never sold this product or service before
- Your assumptions about user behaviour are unvalidated
- You're unsure which feature actually drives sign-up or purchase
- Budget is limited and a failed full build would be devastating
Signs you're ready for the full product
- You have paying customers and retention data
- You know which features matter and which don't
- The MVP is creating friction that's costing you growth
- You have a team to operate and maintain what you build
The right sequence
Build the smallest thing that creates real value. Charge for it from day one — even a nominal amount. If people won't pay a small amount for an imperfect version, they usually won't pay more for a polished one.
Once you have evidence, invest in the full build. At that point, you're not gambling — you're executing on proof.
What we recommend
Start with a 2-week scoping session. We'll map out your MVP, identify the one feature that drives conversion, and give you a fixed price to ship it. Most MVPs are live within 4–8 weeks.