The Core Difference: MVP vs. MLP (Minimum Lovable Product)

The Problem with "Minimum": The standard definition of the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) focuses on viability as can it function? But in today's crowded market, a product that only functions often fails to gain adoption. Users download it, find it clunky, and quickly churn. You get a "false negative" validation: the idea might be great, but the execution was too "minimum" to truly test the market.

Introducing the MLP: The Minimum Lovable Product (MLP) shifts the focus from cost to user delight. The MLP must solve one core problem so well that the early adopter feels immense value and would be disappointed if the product were taken away.

Why it Matters for the clients: Focusing on the MLP is an act of discipline. It forces ruthless prioritization to ensure that the initial budget is spent on polish and impact for the core user journey, not on a checklist of half-finished features. This approach reduces risk, accelerates positive validation, and secures early user loyalty, giving you a strong foundation for scaling.