Coding Shouldn't Be Your First MVP Step
Got a startup idea? Think you need to code an MVP? Think again.
Hi, I’m Till Carlos. My ultimate goal is to get you ship software projects faster, in higher quality, and with less cost.
You can probably hack your way to an MVP
Before you write a single line of code, consider these:
- Can you do it with Excel and a phone?
- Can you bend a WordPress site to your will?
- Can you play a human chatbot?
- Can you hire someone to use no-code tools?
Many ‘software problems’ aren’t actually software problems.
Coding distracts you from the real problem
Especially for startups, this is a trap.
If you’re waiting for development to be done, you’re already on the wrong track.
Example: A startup wanted to build a platform. They’d spend a year coding, blocking their entire operation. That’s a year not solving the real problem.
Coding is an expensive way to test
Yes, you can code, but it’ll burn cash fast.
Coding is like gasoline on fire. You need the fire first.
Only code if you need a Proof of Concept (PoC). Even then, always focus on the main problem first.
Example: ClipTil, our self-hosted Loom alternative. We built UI first, main functionality last. Wrong approach.
What’s your business, anyway?
Many don’t know what business they’re really in. Example: I thought my agency was about building cool software. A CEO set me straight: “Your business is scaling manpower up and down dynamically.”
Eye-opener. I wasn’t in the “build cool stuff” business. I was running an HR machine.
Already started coding?
I coach product managers to become more technical.
Hit me up for free coaching (August/September), and watch my video on why you should not even code your MVP.
