A prototype is a model built to test a concept, while an MVP is a functional product built to be released to actual users.
While often confused, Prototypes and Minimum Viable Products (MVPs) serve entirely different purposes in the product development lifecycle.
A Prototype is a preliminary model—often just a clickable design on Figma with no real code behind it. It is used to visualize an idea, test the user interface layout, and secure early stakeholder buy-in before writing any code. You test a prototype internally.
An MVP is a fully coded, functional application with real backend logic and a real database, but with only the most essential features to solve a core problem for early adopters. You launch an MVP to the market.
The Pipeline:
- Step 1: Design the Prototype to see how it looks.
- Step 2: Code the MVP to see if people will actually use/buy it.
- Step 3: Build the Full Product based on MVP feedback.