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Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is used to evaluate ideas and hypotheses when launching new products or services. It is a test version of a product or service. In software development, this approach is actively used in the context of product development.

The main goal when creating a basic version of a product to test its value is to get feedback from consumers with minimal cost and answer the question whether it makes sense to develop it further, or whether the target audience needs it.

In this case, the basic concept is more important than the technical part, because custom MVP development services can be ordered from external contractors.

MVP allows you to minimize the risk of failure at the full-scale launch stage. During testing, the entrepreneur learns about the potential of the product, how useful and interesting it is for the target audience, and what needs to be refined or improved. The use of this tool helps to speed up the launch of the main product and to adapt it to the needs of consumers at the development stage.

For example, a natural cosmetics manufacturer decides to add a solid shampoo to its product line. At the MVP stage, he does not necessarily need to develop packaging or invest in a marketing campaign. A trial batch can be launched in kraft packaging, testing different flavors and volumes at once. Then, after receiving feedback, a particular flavor can be introduced into mass production in the volume and packaging that consumers demand.

Before jumping right into development, there are a few important things to analyze:

• Target audience. Who are the main users. The basic principle of MVP is to start with a minimal audience. Therefore, the audience should be narrowed down as much as possible and their needs, preferences should be studied.
• Competitor analysis. If the target audience is already using similar products, it is necessary to understand the strengths and weaknesses, competitive advantages of the new product. This will allow you to create a unique product with high value.
• SWOT analysis. Based on the previous data, you can analyze the potential of the idea: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats.

It is important to remember that "minimum viable product" does not mean creating an unfinished or low quality product. On the contrary, it is important that it is functional and fully meets the needs of consumers.

Key benefits of MVP for product development

If we were to highlight some of the most universal benefits, they would be the following:

• Risk minimization. It takes much less time and resources to create such a product. And in case of failure, the entrepreneur will avoid big losses.
• Objectivity. Demand indicators, production costs, consumer price expectations are real and measurable.
• Flexibility. The methodology allows you to change, finalize consumer parameters of the product.
• Universality. Suitable for various niches. The results of such tests can be used for a long time.

To sum up, the use of this approach in practice allows you to identify potential problems or shortcomings of the product at the early stages of development, when making changes is much easier and cheaper.

This saves resources and minimizes financial risks. In addition, MVP allows you to get to market faster, which can be an important advantage in a highly competitive market.