Launch with one core feature that delivers the aha moment, even if everything else is incomplete
Instead of building a complete product, focus your MVP on the single feature that creates the transformative experience users need. This core feature can remain unchanged for years because it captures the essential value. Launch with just that feature plus minimal supporting elements, knowing that design and additional features can evolve later while the core stays constant.
When to use
When building a product for users in crisis or high-stress moments who need one clear solution, not feature bloat. Especially relevant for health, safety, or emotional well-being apps where simplicity during use is critical.
Don't do this
Building a comprehensive feature set before launch, or constantly changing the core mechanic instead of improving around it. Trying to compete on breadth instead of nailing one critical moment.
2 Founders Who Did This
Launched with just the panic attack button that walks users through an attack, plus a simple breathing tool and educational lessons. The button feature hasn't changed in 6+ years.
Initial product was just the in-product SDK for micro-surveys. Everything else (survey design, analysis, dashboards) was done manually by the team.