Start with the outcome, not the tool
A useful app starts with a job someone is trying to get done. Define the user, the moment they feel the problem, and the result that would make the product worth returning to.
The narrower the first outcome, the easier it is to judge whether AI generation is helping or merely creating more surface area to maintain.
Map the minimum working workflow
Write the user journey as a sequence: arrive, understand the value, sign in if necessary, complete the core action, save or receive a result, and return later.
This map becomes a practical specification for any AI builder. It also exposes which infrastructure is genuinely required for version one.
Choose infrastructure deliberately
Many projects need more than a generated interface. Ask whether the MVP needs accounts, persistent data, payments, email, file storage, integrations, AI usage, or a custom domain.
An integrated platform can reduce setup work, but integrated does not automatically mean best. The right choice depends on control, portability, budget and the specific product you are shipping.
Test the critical path
Before adding more features, test the one path that creates the promised outcome. Broken edge cases are often more valuable to discover than another polished screen.
Use real people where possible. Watch where they hesitate, what they misunderstand, and what they expect the app to do next.
Expand after evidence
A first release should create learning. Use sign-ups, usage, feedback and support questions to decide which workflow deserves more development.
Do not confuse a large feature list with validation. The strongest next feature is often the one that removes friction from the behavior users already value.
Use prompts as product specifications
Instead of asking for “a great app,” describe the user, the data, the core workflow, the visual hierarchy and the constraints.
Iterate in small changes so you can see what caused an improvement or regression.
- Describe the user and problem
- Describe the core workflow
- List required data and states
- Specify what should not happen
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