·4 min read
MVP Solution Hypotheses: Test Before Building
Your first solution idea is probably wrong. Treat it as a hypothesis to test, not a plan to execute.
What Is a Solution Hypothesis
A testable statement: We believe [solution] will solve [problem] for [user] because [reason].
Hypothesis Examples
- •We believe a shared inbox will reduce email response time for support teams by 50%
- •We believe automated scheduling will help freelancers book 30% more calls
- •We believe a mobile app will increase daily active usage compared to web only
Testing Without Code
| Method | Time | What You Learn |
|---|---|---|
| Customer interviews | 1 week | Problem and solution fit |
| Landing page test | 1-2 weeks | Demand and messaging |
| Concierge MVP | 2-4 weeks | Full workflow validation |
| Wizard of Oz | 1-2 weeks | User experience feedback |
| Prototype testing | 1 week | Usability and flow |
Defining Success Criteria
- •Set metrics before testing
- •Define what would prove you wrong
- •Agree on sample size needed
- •Set a time limit for the test
When to Pivot
- •Hypothesis clearly disproven
- •Users do not engage with the solution
- •Better solution discovered during testing
- •Market changed during validation
Killing a bad hypothesis early saves months of building the wrong thing. Celebrate when you disprove your assumptions.