No-code MVP
Build a fully functional MVP using no-code tools. (To be clear, the MVP DOES run on code, but you don't have to do any of the coding)
What is No-code MVP?
A No-code MVP is a fully functional minimum viable product built using visual, drag-and-drop platforms that require no traditional programming skills. These platforms like Bubble, Webflow, Airtable, and Zapier allow entrepreneurs to create sophisticated web applications, mobile apps, and automated workflows without writing a single line of code. This approach enables rapid prototyping and validation of business ideas while maintaining professional functionality and user experience.
This validation technique is particularly powerful because it bridges the gap between simple prototypes and expensive custom development. Unlike paper prototypes or mockups, a no-code MVP provides real functionality that users can interact with, generating authentic feedback and usage data. It tests all three validation pillars simultaneously: desirability (do users want this?), viability (can we monetize it?), and feasibility (can we build and scale it?) while keeping costs under €5000 and development time to weeks rather than months.
When to Use This Experiment
• Early-stage startups with limited technical resources but clear product vision • Non-technical founders who want to validate ideas without hiring expensive developers • B2B SaaS concepts that require database functionality, user authentication, and workflow automation • Marketplace or platform ideas that need user registration, profiles, and transaction capabilities • Before significant investment in custom development to reduce risk and validate core assumptions • Testing complex user flows that simple prototypes cannot adequately represent • Validating pricing models through actual payment processing and subscription management • When you need real user data and analytics to make informed product decisions
How to Run This Experiment
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Define core features and user flows - List the essential 3-5 features your MVP must have and map out the primary user journey from signup to core value delivery
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Choose your no-code stack - Select platforms based on your needs: Bubble or Webflow for web apps, Airtable for databases, Stripe for payments, Zapier for integrations
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Create user authentication and onboarding - Set up user registration, login functionality, and design a smooth onboarding flow that guides users to your core value proposition
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Build core functionality - Develop the main features using visual builders, connecting databases, creating workflows, and ensuring data flows correctly between components
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Integrate third-party services - Connect payment processing, email marketing, analytics, and any other essential services using built-in integrations or API connectors
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Design and optimize user interface - Create an intuitive, professional-looking interface that clearly communicates your value proposition and guides users through key actions
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Test thoroughly and deploy - Conduct extensive testing of all user flows, fix bugs, optimize performance, and launch your MVP on a custom domain with proper analytics tracking
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Monitor, measure, and iterate - Track key metrics like user activation, retention, and conversion rates, gathering feedback to inform rapid iterations and improvements
Pros and Cons
Pros
• Rapid development - Launch functional MVPs in weeks instead of months • Cost-effective - Significantly cheaper than custom development, typically under €5000 • No technical expertise required - Non-technical founders can build sophisticated applications • Easy iteration - Quick to modify features and test different approaches based on user feedback • Professional functionality - Real databases, payments, and integrations create authentic user experiences
Cons
• Platform limitations - Constrained by the capabilities and restrictions of no-code tools • Scalability concerns - May need migration to custom code as user base and complexity grow • Ongoing subscription costs - Monthly fees for platforms can add up over time • Performance limitations - Generally slower and less optimized than custom-coded solutions • Vendor lock-in - Difficult to migrate data and functionality if you outgrow the platform
Real-World Examples
Dividend Finance started as a no-code MVP built on Bubble to validate their solar loan marketplace concept. The founders used the platform to test their core hypothesis about connecting solar installers with financing options, processing real loan applications and gathering user feedback. After proving product-market fit, they raised $365M in funding and eventually migrated to custom development, but the no-code MVP was crucial for early validation and investor confidence.
Qoins used a combination of Bubble and Zapier to build their spare change investment app MVP, allowing users to round up purchases and invest the difference. The no-code approach enabled them to test complex financial integrations and user behaviors without massive development costs. They successfully validated their concept, acquired thousands of users, and used the traction to secure funding for native app development.
Lambda School's initial course management system was built using Airtable and Zapier to manage student applications, track progress, and coordinate with instructors. This no-code MVP allowed them to validate their income-share agreement model and refine their educational processes before investing in custom learning management software, ultimately scaling to thousands of students and a $4B valuation.