An MVP must close one loop
A useful first release lets one specific customer complete one valuable outcome from beginning to end. If a human must secretly repair every result, that may be a valid concierge pilot—but it should be named and measured as one.
Keep the foundation, narrow the surface
Authentication, ownership boundaries, backups, observability, and data lifecycle are not optional polish. Narrow the number of roles, integrations, and edge workflows instead.
Define the proof before the build
Choose the behavioral signal that would justify more investment: completed workflows, retained teams, paid conversions, time saved, or a measurable quality gain. Page views alone rarely prove product value.
Write the not-now list
A visible not-now list prevents deferred ideas from quietly returning as launch requirements. Give every item a reason and a trigger for reconsideration.
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