In a Lean Start Up approach, what drives the next steps in product development?

In a Lean Start-Up approach, the next steps in product development are primarily driven by feedback that specifies needs for the next iteration. This method emphasizes a build-measure-learn cycle, where teams create a minimum viable product (MVP) to gauge customer reactions and gather insights. Feedback is essential because it helps the team understand what works, what doesn’t, and what needs improvement based on real user interactions instead of assumptions. By utilizing this feedback, organizations can make informed decisions that align with customer needs, enhancing the likelihood of developing a product that meets market demands.

This iterative feedback loop is integral to the Lean Start-Up philosophy, which seeks to minimize waste and maximize learning throughout the product development process. It contrasts with approaches that rely solely on internal opinions, rigid timelines, or stakeholder requests, which may not reflect actual customer experiences or market realities. Focusing on customer feedback allows teams to remain agile, adapt quickly, and ultimately deliver more value.