SaaS MVP feature checklist
What to build and what to leave for V2. The essential guide to MVP scoping.
Decide What Not to Build
Scope creep is the enemy. Use our framework to prioritize features that validate your core business hypothesis. An MVP should have just enough to test your assumptions.
Must-Have Features
List only 3-5 features that directly solve your target problem. Everything else is nice-to-have. Be ruthless about prioritization.
Core User Journey
Map the minimum path from sign-up to value delivery. Remove all steps that are not essential. Friction kills MVPs.
Authentication
Include email/password at minimum. Add social login for convenience. Skip complex RBAC until enterprise customers demand it.
Payment Integration
Integrate Stripe or equivalent. Test payment flows end-to-end. Handle failed payments gracefully. Set up webhooks for reliable processing.
Analytics
Track key user actions from day one. Understand how users move through your product. Identify where they succeed or struggle.
What to Skip
Skip for V1: advanced reporting, complex permissions, mobile apps, white-labeling, integrations with low-usage tools. Build the basics exceptionally well.
Sapterc Editorial Team
Expert insights on SaaS architecture, product management, and engineering.