Consider you’ve built your no-code MVP and are ready to validate it with real users to ensure it solves their problems. You’re excited to gather feedback and improve your product. But as you analyze the results, you realize nobody wants to use your product. No one seems interested in your solution. You start to panic. You’ve done all this work, and the feedback tells you you’ve failed. 

But have you? What if you could step back and better understand what’s going on? What if there was a way to validate your MVP before launching it? This guide will help you answer these questions by showing you how to conduct MVP validation for your SaaS startup as a non-technical founder.  MVP validation is a critical step to improving your no-code MVP before a full launch, and it’s nothing to panic about.  

Instead, think of MVP validation as a way to gather the information you need to improve your product and build a better solution for your target audience.  If you can get that information sooner rather than later, you can avoid a lot of stress when it’s time to launch your product.  In this guide, we’ll break down what MVP validation is, the benefits of MVP validation, and how you can conduct MVP validation for your no-code MVP as a non-technical founder.

What is MVP Validation, and Why is it Important?

MVP validation confirms that your Minimum Viable Product (MVP) solves a genuine problem for your target audience and that users are willing to pay for your solution. An MVP is the most basic version of your product, including only the essential features to solve the core problem. Validation ensures that before committing time and money to full-scale development, the MVP proves its value to early adopters. 

This can seem overwhelming for non-technical founders, but the validation process doesn’t require coding knowledge. Validation is more about gathering real-world feedback from potential users and ensuring that the product concept resonates with the market. 

Key Points to Emphasize 

MVP validation focuses on user feedback, market demand, and real-world testing. It helps startups avoid spending money and time building features users don’t need. Non-technical founders can rely on no-code tools and external agencies like Minimum Code to manage the technical aspects while they focus on gathering feedback. 

Why Is MVP Validation Important for SaaS Startups? 

Validation is critical for any SaaS startup because it reduces the risk of building a product nobody wants. Many SaaS founders, especially those without a technical background, are tempted to focus heavily on features and design, but what’s more important is ensuring a real market need for the product. Here’s why MVP validation is vital: 

Reduces Risk 

MVP validation helps you determine your idea's viability before investing heavily in total development. It ensures that you’re building a product that addresses a real problem your target audience faces. By validating early, you avoid the common startup pitfall of creating a product without understanding market demand, which can lead to wasted resources. 

Stat

According to a report by CB Insights, 42% of startups fail because they build products that do not solve a market need. This highlights how essential MVP validation is in ensuring that your product addresses a genuine problem. 

Saves Time and Resources 

MVP validation is an intelligent way to optimize resources for SaaS startups working on limited budgets. Instead of spending time and money building a fully developed product, you focus on testing the core idea with a basic version. If the MVP gains traction, you can confidently invest in scaling the product. If it doesn’t, you can pivot or refine your idea before too many resources are spent. 

Early user feedback is crucial. MVP validation allows you to test your assumptions in real-world conditions and gather data on what users want. Non-technical founders can collect feedback on user experience, feature requests, and pain points, which can be used to improve the MVP. This iterative process of listening to users and making adjustments based on their feedback increases the likelihood of building a product that resonates with your target market. 

Practical Example

For instance, when Dropbox started as an MVP, it only offered a simple demo video explaining the core concept. Early adopters’ feedback helped Dropbox refine the product and focus on the features users needed, which led to its eventual success. 

Specific Challenges for Non-Technical Founders

The MVP validation process can present unique challenges for non-technical founders, primarily because they may need more coding skills to adjust the product quickly. However, these challenges can be managed with the right approach and tools. By leveraging no-code development platforms and external agencies, non-technical founders can focus on the validation process without worrying about the technical complexities. 

Challenge 1: Limited Technical Skills 

Non-technical founders often struggle with building prototypes or MVPs because they don’t have the coding experience to develop and modify features quickly. This is where no-code platforms like Bubble.io, Webflow, and Xano come in. These platforms allow founders to create functional MVPs without writing a single line of code. You can quickly build and test core features, make modifications based on feedback, and iterate faster. 

• Solution: Work with a no-code development agency like Minimum Code, which specializes in helping non-technical founders launch MVPs quickly. The agency can handle the technical aspects, while the founders focus on validation through feedback and iteration. 

Challenge 2: Difficulty in Gathering Feedback 

Another challenge for non-technical founders is figuring out how to gather and interpret feedback from potential users. They might need the tools or knowledge to set up surveys, interviews, or user testing environments that provide actionable insights. However, many resources are available to make this process easier. 

• Solution: Tools like Google Forms, Typeform, and Notion allow founders to create structured surveys and gather user feedback. In addition, non-technical founders can use social media platforms and online communities (e.g., Reddit, LinkedIn, and Facebook groups) to engage with potential users and collect real-world insights. 

What Are No-Code MVPs, and Why Are They Important?

We are a no-code development agency tailored for non-technical entrepreneurs looking to launch B2B SaaS or service web apps quickly. Our expertise lies in using tools like Bubble.io, Xano.com, and Webflow to deliver MVPs within a month. Why you should work with us: We offer rapid development speed, cost-effectiveness compared to traditional methods, scalable and secure solutions, and full-service support from design to post-launch. 

We're ideal for founders who've experienced lengthy traditional development cycles or need a technical co-founder. Our approach solves common pain points like needing more tech skills, no-code scalability, security concerns, and the desire to focus on business while we handle the tech. With Minimum Code, you can finally bring your long-held business idea to life quickly and efficiently without breaking the bank. Bring your long-held business ideas to life with us! Reach out today for a free product discovery & scoping session, and see how our no-code development agency can help you turn your vision into reality.

Related Reading

• MVP in Scrum
• Types of MVPs ‍
• MVP Testing Methods ‍
• Minimum Viable Product vs Prototype
• Minimum Viable Product Examples
• MVP App Development
• MVP Testing
• MVP Marketing
• Build MVP
• Prototype vs MVP

How to Conduct MVP Validation as a Non-Technical Founder

Define Your Value Proposition and Target Audience

The first and most crucial step in MVP validation is clearly defining your value proposition—the problem your product solves—and identifying your target audience—who will benefit from the solution. Without clarity on these two aspects, the rest of the validation process will lack focus. 

Best Practices 

• Identify the Core Problem: Be very specific about the problem your SaaS product is solving. Don’t try to address multiple issues at once. Focus on the one problem that your potential customers feel most strongly about. 
• Example: If you’re developing a project management tool, don’t just say, “It helps people manage projects.” Instead, narrow it down to, “It helps small teams track project timelines efficiently without needing extra tools.” 

Know Your Ideal Customer 

Create a detailed buyer persona. Who are they? What’s their demographic? What specific pain points do they have that your product solves? Are they freelancers, startups, or large enterprises? 

• Tip: Use tools like Xtensio or HubSpot's Buyer Persona Generator to create detailed customer profiles. 

Common Challenges 

Vague Problem Definition 

Many founders need help narrowing down the core problem their product solves, which can make it challenging to validate effectively. 

• Solution: Focus on one core issue that keeps your target audience up at night. Use online forums (e.g., Reddit, Quora) and customer feedback to refine your problem statement. 

Identifying the Wrong Audience  

Some founders may need to be more accurate with their target audience, making validation ineffective. 

• Solution: Don’t assume your audience. Use tools like Google Surveys or Typeform to gather input and validate your assumptions before proceeding.

Create a Landing Page to Test Interest

A No-Code MVP: What Is It?

No-code MVPs are quick, simple, and affordable to build. You can create an MVP without writing a single line of code. Instead, you leverage no-code tools to get the job done. For instance, to build an MVP for a new app, you could use no-code tools to create a website, a database, and even the app’s user interface. You could even use no-code tools to automate tasks and processes to improve functionality. An MVP aims to validate your business idea by learning about your target audience and their preferences. No-code MVPs can help you achieve your goals faster than traditional coding methods.

Launch a No-Code Prototype

Stop Worrying About Your Coding Skills

For non-technical founders, building a fully functioning product might only be realistic with coding skills. Instead, you can use no-code platforms to create a prototype—a basic version of your product that includes core features. This lets you gather feedback on usability and value without needing an entire development team.

Build Your MVP Without Code

Use No-Code Development Tools: Platforms like Bubble.io, Adalo, Glide, or Xano allow non-technical founders to build functional MVPs. Focus on creating a prototype with only the essential features.

• Tip: Start with the most basic version of your product that solves the problem you identified. Don't worry about perfecting it—your goal is to test the core functionality. 

Gather Feedback on Your No-Code MVP

Once the prototype is live, get it into the hands of your target audience. Use tools like UserTesting or Maze to collect data on how users interact with the prototype and refine it based on their feedback. 

Incorporate Analytics

Platforms like Hotjar or Google Analytics can be used to track user behavior on the prototype. Are they completing tasks? Where do they drop off? These insights are invaluable for refining your MVP. 

Over-Complicating the MVP

• Common Challenges: Founders often feel tempted to add too many features, complicating the validation process. 
• Solution: Stick to your core feature set. If you’re uncertain which features to prioritize, ask potential customers or early adopters. 

Expectations vs Reality

• Prototype Doesn’t Meet Expectations: It can be disheartening if users find the prototype buggy or confusing. 
• Solution: Communicate clearly with your users that it’s a prototype, not a final product, and actively ask for feedback on improvement. Continuous iteration is critical to refining your MVP. 

Find Your MVP Quick

• 60% Faster Time-to-Market with No-Code MVPs: According to Gartner (2023), businesses using no-code platforms to build and validate MVPs can bring their products to market 60% faster than traditional development methods. This is particularly beneficial for non-technical founders who must move quickly without a technical co-founder. 

What Are No-Code MVPs, and Why Are They Important?

We are a no-code development agency tailored for non-technical entrepreneurs looking to launch B2B SaaS or service web apps quickly. Our expertise lies in using tools like Bubble.io, Xano.com, and Webflow to deliver MVPs within a month. Why you should work with us: We offer rapid development speed, cost-effectiveness compared to traditional methods, scalable and secure solutions, and full-service support from design to post-launch. 

We're ideal for founders who've experienced lengthy traditional development cycles or need a technical co-founder. Our approach solves common pain points like needing more tech skills, no-code scalability, security concerns, and the desire to focus on business while we handle the tech. With Minimum Code, you can finally bring your long-held business idea to life quickly and efficiently without breaking the bank. Bring your long-held business ideas to life with us! Reach out today for a free product discovery & scoping session, and see how our no-code development agency can help you turn your vision into reality.

How to Conduct MVP Validation as a Non-Technical Founder

Conduct User Interviews and Surveys

What is No-Code MVP Validation?

After launching your no-code prototype, you need to gather qualitative feedback. Conducting user interviews and distributing surveys will help you understand the MVP's real-world application and whether it solves the core problem.

Best Practices for No-Code MVP Validation

• User Interviews: Speak directly to users who interacted with your prototype. Ask open-ended questions to uncover their thoughts on your MVP's usability, functionality, and problem-solving ability.
• Tip: Use tools like Calendly to schedule interviews easily. During interviews, ask questions like: "What problem did you expect this tool to solve?" and "Which features would you prioritize?"

Surveys

Use tools like Google Forms, Typeform, or SurveyMonkey to distribute surveys to a larger audience. Surveys allow you to gather structured feedback and gauge overall satisfaction.

• Tip: Keep surveys short, with a mix of open-ended and multiple-choice questions. Offer incentives (like early access or a discount) to encourage participation.

Focus on Pain Points

Ask users what they liked and didn’t like and what improvements they’d suggest. Pay special attention to feedback that indicates whether the MVP effectively solves their core problem.

Common Challenges of No-Code MVP Validation

Getting User Participation

Getting users to commit time to an interview or survey can be challenging.

• Solution: Offer incentives, such as discounts, gift cards, or exclusive early access to the entire product. Provide flexible time slots or brief surveys to make it as easy as possible for users to participate.

Interpreting Feedback

Non-technical founders need help interpreting technical feedback on the MVP.

• Solution: Focus on understanding user pain points and how well the MVP addresses them. If technical feedback is overwhelming, partner with a no-code development agency to help you make sense of the data.

Related Reading

• MVP Features
• MVP Development Process
• How to Build an MVP
• MVP Developer
• MVP Benefits
• SaaS MVP Development
• MVP Development for Startups
  
• Develop MVP
• How to Build an MVP App
• MVP Development Cost

How to Conduct MVP Validation as a Non-Technical Founder

Analyze and Iterate Based on Feedback

What is MVP Validation? 

MVP validation confirms your business idea’s viability by collecting and analyzing feedback on your minimum viable product (MVP). Instead of launching a full-fledged product, MVP validation helps entrepreneurs understand their target audience’s needs and preferences by testing a simplified version of their solution.  This process aims to identify the most critical features and address any usability issues before scaling the product for a larger audience. 

Metrics to Measure Your MVP

Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC): What Every MVP Creator Should Know About Attracting Users 

Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) measures the total cost of acquiring a single customer. This includes all marketing, sales, and related expenses. CAC helps you determine how cost-effective your customer acquisition efforts are and whether your MVP can attract users efficiently.

To Calculate Cac, Use The Following Formula 

CAC = (Total Marketing + Sales Costs) / (Number of Customers Acquired)

Lifetime Value of a Customer (LTV): Understand Revenue Potential with Your MVP 

Lifetime Value (LTV) is the total revenue you can expect from a customer regarding their relationship with your business. Comparing LTV to CAC helps you assess whether your MVP is sustainable—if the cost of acquiring a customer is higher than the revenue they generate, it’s a sign that changes need to be made. 

To Calculate Ltv, Use The Following Formula 

LTV = (Average Revenue per Customer) × (Average Customer Lifespan)

Churn Rate: Measure Customer Satisfaction with Your MVP 

The churn rate measures the percentage of users who stop using your product within a given period. It’s a crucial metric to track because a high churn rate can indicate that your MVP isn’t solving users' problems or meeting their needs effectively. 

To Calculate The Churn Rate, Use The Following Formula 

Churn Rate = (Number of Customers Lost During a Period) / (Total Number of Customers at the Start of the period)

Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR): Predictable Revenue for SaaS MVPs 

Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) is the total predictable monthly customer revenue. This is a critical metric for SaaS startups providing insight into your MVP's growth and financial health. 

To Calculate Mrr, Use The Following Formula 

MRR = (Number of Customers) × (Average Revenue Per User)

Product-Market Fit Score: Measure How Well Users Respond to Your MVP 

The Product-Market Fit (PMF) score measures how well your product meets the needs of your target audience. Achieving PMF means that a significant percentage of your users would be disappointed if they could no longer use your product, a key indicator of success. 

To calculate the PMF score, ask users: “How would you feel if you could no longer use this product?” The critical responses to measure are: 

• Very disappointed 
• Somewhat disappointed 
• Not disappointed 

Active Users (Daily and Monthly): Track Engagement with Your MVP 

Active users measure the number of unique users engaging with your MVP daily (DAU) and monthly (MAU). This metric indicates how often users find value in your product and whether they return regularly. To calculate it: 

• DAU = Number of unique users active in a day 
• MAU = Number of unique users active in a month

Get a Free Product Discovery & Scoping for Your App Idea Today

No-code MVPs allow you to test your business idea quickly and efficiently before investing in a fully-coded web application. They help you save time and money by enabling you to validate your app idea with real users and incorporate their feedback into your final product—before you build it. 

No-code MVPs are often basic web applications that include the core features of your future product. Building a no-code MVP can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of months, depending on the complexity of your project. However, the process is much quicker than developing a traditional MVP, which can take six months or longer.

Related Reading

• MVP Development Team
• MVP Validation
• No Code Agencies
• Creating an MVP
• MVP Timeline
• MVP Tools
• Launching an MVP
• Lean Startup MVP

‍