Lean startup is a method for reducing wasted time and money at the start of a business. Instead of spending months writing plans and building a complete product, you build a simple version, show it to real customers, and learn from their reaction.
The build-measure-learn loop#
The approach is built on a simple cycle:
- Build: make the simplest version possible.
- Measure: see what users actually do, not what they say.
- Learn: decide whether to continue, adjust, or change direction.
The shorter each turn of this loop, the faster the learning.
Example#
Suppose you want to build an online cooking service. Instead of writing a full app, you first make a simple page describing the service with a sign-up button and see how many people register. If nobody shows interest, you have learned, before spending much, that the idea needs to change.
Where it is used#
In startups, product teams, and even the innovation units of large companies. Tools such as the MVP and the pivot come from this way of thinking.
Common misconception#
"Lean" does not mean free of cost or low in quality. It means working only on what produces valuable learning and avoiding building parts for no reason.