In conversations between technology teams and clients, the topic of an MVP (Minimal Viable Product) solution frequently arises. While it is a fundamental concept within teams providing technical solutions, clients often lack a thorough understanding of it. Occasionally, they agree to it after hearing a confident discussion because it seems like a logical course of action.

The developers are pleased. They can create a minimum viable product (MVP) to demonstrate the functionality and “prove value.” This method aligns well with their implementation strategy and helps mitigate project risks.

Initially, the client may feel confident, but there’s a risk they could be disappointed with the results. There’s a disconnect between the tech team and the client. For those new to tech projects, it can be challenging, especially as requirements get diluted or discarded. They may wonder, “How do I explain to my boss that we need more budget?”

To bridge this understanding gap, the concept of the Minimum Delightful Product (MDP) was introduced, a term first coined by Adam Berry. Unlike the MVP, which focuses solely on basic functionality, the MDP aims to deliver a product that not only works but also delights the user. It emphasizes a balance between essential features and user experience, ensuring that even the initial version of the product provides significant value and satisfaction to the client. By focusing on delight rather than just viability, teams can better align client expectations with deliverables, thereby enhancing satisfaction and reducing the risk of budget overruns and unmet expectations.

To move from MVP to MDP on your SharePoint project:

• Engage Users Early: Actively involve end users from the beginning of the SharePoint project to gather their feedback and understand their unique needs. This engagement will ensure that the final product is not only functional but also tailored to delight users.
• Focus on User Experience: Prioritize the design and user interface of the SharePoint site. Ensure that it is aesthetically pleasing, easy to navigate, and intuitive to use, thereby enhancing the overall user experience.
• Personalize Features: Identify core features of the SharePoint solution and enhance them with personalized touches, such as customized dashboards and seamless integrations with other tools, to surprise and satisfy users.
• Ensure Robust Performance: Maintain a strong focus on the reliability and performance of the SharePoint site. A delightful product must be dependable, with minimal downtime and consistent performance.
• Iterative Feedback and Improvement: Continuously gather and incorporate user feedback to enhance the SharePoint solution. Regular updates and improvements based on user input will ensure that the product remains delightful and meets evolving user expectations.

When presenting a Minimum Delightful Product (MDP) to a client, the client should feel a sense of excitement and satisfaction. They should perceive the product not merely as a proof of concept, but as a carefully crafted solution that addresses their needs while exceeding their expectations. The thoughtful incorporation of user feedback, emphasis on aesthetics, and enhancement of core features should instill confidence in the client, making them feel that their investment is worthwhile. They should be able to envisage the product’s potential and its positive impact on their business, appreciating both its immediate functionality and the promise of continued innovation. Ultimately, the presentation of an MDP should evoke a strong emotional connection, leaving the client eager and optimistic about the future development journey.