How can you use MVP design to build a stronger team?

Rather than relying solely on theoretical problem-solving tools, incorporate iterative prototyping as a practical validation method. Develop small-scale prototypes or mock-ups of potential solutions based on your initial problem understanding.

In crafting an MVP, the first step at RiteGTM is to zero in on the problem and the goal. This ensures that our team works in unison, driven by a shared vision. We use tools like problem statements to precisely articulate the issue we aim to resolve, making it the project's North Star. Defining the goal is equally important; it's usually a SMART objective that aligns with the client's strategic milestones. We often employ value propositions, user personas, and customer journey maps to flesh out our understanding of the target audience. This methodology not only avoids resource wastage on irrelevant features but also ensures everyone on the team knows their role in achieving the common goal.

Involving your team at the early stages of problem discovery and definition helps in a number of ways: 1. It promotes a shared understanding and clarity of the problem space you are operating in. 2. It boosts your team's motivation and sense of ownership, rather than simply performing a series of tasks given by founders/management. 3. It helps rally your team and ensure they are all focused on the same problem / goal, rather than spreading their efforts on multiple priorities.

Go beyond traditional brainstorming by incorporating divergent thinking workshops. Engage your team in structured sessions designed to foster a wide range of unconventional ideas. This approach encourages participants to explore beyond the obvious solutions, unlocking innovative and out-of-the-box concepts.

After defining the problem and setting the goal, the next phase is brainstorming solutions. At this stage, we cultivate an atmosphere of open dialogue and creative freedom. Everyone on the team is encouraged to contribute, and we use tools like mind maps and storyboards to visualize these ideas. The goal is quantity over quality initially—no idea is too 'out there.' Once we've got a robust list, we shift gears to prioritization. This is where our approach gets analytical. We consider variables like feasibility, customer desirability, and business viability to evaluate each idea. Tools like feature lists and impact-effort matrices come into play here, helping us rank options. We might even hold a team vote on the most compelling solutions.

Implement A/B testing strategies to systematically enhance your MVP based on performance insights. Divide your user base into groups experiencing different versions of your MVP and analyze their interactions.

Building and testing the MVP is where the rubber meets the road. This iterative phase is vital for hypothesis validation and learning. Depending on the project's scope, resources, and urgency, we may opt for various MVP formats like prototypes, mockups, or even simple landing pages. The guiding principle is to provide the core value proposition in the most streamlined way possible, without any extraneous features that could dilute focus. Once the MVP is ready, we expose it to real or potential customers for feedback. Methods could range from user interviews and surveys to A/B testing. We closely monitor key metrics and gather user insights to evaluate whether we're meeting our initial goals and delivering real value.

When building your MVP I like to keep it simple and straightforward... 1) Figure out the exact problem you want to solve 2) Talk to potential customers FIRST as to if they would use a product youre making to solve that pain point 3) Build the most simple app/software/product that solves this pain. Use no code solutions or zapps if youre not technical enough to code yourself 4) Get users on asap & get feedback to improve If you can get 40-50 paying customers, double down and you have a business!!!

Make sure to reflect with the team on how they experienced the MVP process. Who likes and excels at which parts? Assign roles for the next iteration accordingly to improve the process and team.

People need to know what they're selling, marketing, and supporting. They need to answer their friends when they say, "What is your job?" People who work in SpaceX and Rocket Labs always cherish the moment a flight is successful. People need to see what they're investing their time in.

The original point of this article is actually fascinating but doesn’t really focus on it. In getting at how MVP design benefits teams, it’s about how the MVP process pushes and pulls on different aspects of team work and individual characters. One big thing that it would help shake out is the agility and risk appetite of each team member, as well as their collective ability to launch. If you can’t iterate your MVP fast enough, this is a clear warning sign for the success of the business.

-First find a gap to develop a solution. - Research competition - hire people with the required skills needed to develop an MVP - narrow down a list of your early adopters - get your team involved in product iteration, roadmap and MVP requirements - build trust within your teams and encourage ideas - review the product lifecycle with stakeholders, peers and prospects - be agile as MVP requires flexibility to accommodate a change - be open to feedback/ criticism - ensure your vision is understood - engage empathetically with your team as they are the heart of your vision and the new product