From idea to MVP: typical pitfalls - and how to avoid them

The idea is there. You have identified a problem, have a solution in mind - and now you want to get started. The next step: a MVPa minimum viable product. Sounds simple, right? In reality, this is exactly where many start-ups stumble.

In this article, we show you the most common pitfalls on the way to becoming an MVP - and how to avoid them.

The classic: Instead of developing a "minimally viable product", a complete solution with all features is developed straight away. The problem: you lose time, money and, above all, focus.

How to avoid it:

• • Define the absolute core problem that you are solving with your product.
  • Build only one Core function that addresses this problem.
  • Ask yourself the question: Would I still build my MVP if I only had two weeks?

Many start-ups develop in secret - for fear of ideas being stolen or because the product is "not ready yet". This is fatal, because without real users, you can't recognise whether you are solving a relevant problem at all.

How to avoid it:

• • Speech as early as possible with potential customers.
  • Use interviews, surveys or landing pages to test genuine interest.
  • Dare to show imperfect prototypes - feedback beats perfection.

An MVP is not a product, but a Experiment. It's about testing assumptions - for example: "Target group X has problem Y and would use/pay for solution Z."

How to avoid it:

• • Formulate testable hypotheses - concrete and measurable.
  • Define what "success" means beforehand (e.g. conversion rate, registrations, duration of use).

Don't be guided by gut feeling - but by data.

The urge to build a scalable platform with microservices and cloud infrastructure can be particularly strong among tech start-ups. But you don't need perfect architecture for an MVP - you need speed.

How to avoid it:

• • Ask yourself: What is the quickest way to test my hypothesis?
  • Use no-code/low-code tools if possible.
  • Develop iteratively - you can (and will) change later.

An MVP is not just a test - it is also a strong signal. For investors, for your first customers and for your network. Whoever brings an MVP into the world shows: We are serious.

How to use it properly:

• • Communicate clearly, what the MVP can do - and what it can't (yet) do.
  • Use your MVP in pitches, demos and for PR.
  • Collect feedback not just passively, but actively and specifically.

The path to MVP is not a sprint to product maturity. It is an iterative learning process. By focussing on the essentials, testing hypotheses and involving users early on, you lay the foundations for a strong product - and a successful startup.

So: Start small, learn quickly - and only develop what really counts.

Do you want to take a concrete approach to your MVP? Then apply for our free open pitch and show us your idea!