Clarifying the MVP’s core problem

The first step in designing an MVP is narrowing the product’s broader vision to one specific, actionable problem that it can realistically address within its limited scope. A product can have multiple problem statements, each describing a distinct but related challenge faced by different user groups or contexts. However, an MVP focuses on just one of these problems to test a clear hypothesis and gather meaningful results. Trying to solve several problems at once can dilute learning and overcomplicate development.

To identify the right focus, teams should rely on user research and observed pain points. Prioritize the issues that appear most frequently or cause the greatest frustration. For example, if many users struggle to manage invoices, the main challenge may not be adding more accounting features, but simplifying how they follow rules and handle taxes. Addressing one critical pain point creates a strong foundation for iteration and expansion later.^[1]

A clear and specific problem statement keeps all stakeholders aligned. Designers, developers, and managers need to agree on the same challenge to avoid confusion and misdirected effort. Writing it down ensures the MVP becomes an intentional experiment aimed at solving a real user problem, not a collection of assumptions.^[2]