Why an MVP is important for app projects
An MVP is usually used when feedback is to be collected from user groups. This is a basic set of functions that is brought to market at an early stage in order to further optimize it. We are also increasingly relying on the development of MVPs, but we are approaching this differently than usual.
SWICA’s Benevita app also started with an MVP. Image: Bitforge
What is an MVP anyway?
A minimum viable product is often the first step of a project. This is usually a first marketable version of an app or website. Basic applications should be available so that the functionality can be validated and further developed on the market as a first step.
We also rely on an MVP as a first step, but in a slightly different way than is common practice. While an MVP in the classic sense consists of the minimum functionalities required to use the app and still leaves out the question of design or usefulness, for example, we are already planning these areas. For us, the design, basic thoughts on implementation, reliability and performance are part of the first steps.
An MVP is not a test run
An MVP is therefore not just a draft, but should already be mature enough to be published in the stores. Which is what we do! However, as we take an iterative approach in all our activities, this is also a good idea for app projects. Once the MVP has been published, it can be gradually adapted or new features can be implemented.
But why are we arguing that these features and customizations should not be included right from the start? Because it saves us a lot of work and therefore budget. App and web projects have a reputation for being extremely complex. The specifications have to be thought through down to the last detail before you can even think about starting programming. But if we start with an MVP, this complexity is reduced.
Maximum impact with minimum effort
Instead of asking ourselves what the app must be able to do EVERYTHING, we work with our customers to find out what the app must be able to do AT LEAST. With this approach, it is possible to provide a functioning app in the store very cost-effectively and with minimal effort. This can be worthwhile for both SMEs and large corporations that want to validate an idea on the market and do not want to implement a concept and digital project planned down to the last detail for every request.
“Digital projects often fail because companies have different perceptions of what is really important to users. With an MVP, we objectively and jointly validate an idea directly on the market in order to learn quickly and understand the users even better,” says Rami Al Beati from Bitforge. One example of the successful use of an MVP is the Benevita App from SWICA.
With us, an MVP not only has the basic functions, but all other areas of app development are also implemented and planned. Graphic: Bitforge AG
An MVP is intended to be used. It can therefore already be used and deployed by our clients’ customers, which then generates initial results. How is the app being used? How is the feedback? Are there adjustments and features that are desired and those that are never used? This allows us to plan further step by step.
Would you like to know what we can implement for you within an MVP and how you can save project costs? Then get in touch with us.
