One of the representations of MVP and fast learning (testing and validating assumptions) which I have come across is the “Cupcake model”. It focuses on delivering a small but very desirable chunk. What it says is that if you plan to bake a wedding cake you have 2 ways of doing it.
The first option is to go with the classic way of focusing on delivering the individual ingredients like cake base, filing and icing. Generally those ingredients by themselves do not bring any value to client. Delivering just a cake base or cake base with filling won’t satisfy the client’s need by itself. Only the end result, having all 3 ingredients together, will bring the desirable outcome.
The other option is to start with delivering something small like a cupcake. This way you will receive feedback sooner and gain valuable insights from clients like what flavors they prefer, possible problems with the oven and kitchen for example. Once you have collected your cupcake feedback, you can proceed with the next iteration to deliver a cake and later the wedding cake. By following the cupcake option, you will be achieving fast learning and will be able to capture value for both your client and your business.
Cupcake can help you with:
- Testing ideas;
- Validating new concepts;
- Managing the scope of big projects;
- Reducing risk;
- Decision making;
- Collecting feedback;
- Testing new markets;
- Creating new markets;
- Onboarding new users;
- Saving money.
Read more:
Cupcakes: The Secret to Product Planning
https://medium.com/the-creative-founder/cupcakes-the-secret-to-product-planning-93dd5c09ddab
Start with a cupcake
https://www.intercom.com/blog/start-with-a-cupcake/
