Building and launching a SaaS MVP in 90 days sounds ambitious, but it's entirely achievable with the right strategy. The key is focusing on what matters—solving one problem extremely well—while avoiding the common pitfalls that derail first-time founders.
At Boundev, we help startups go from idea to launched product in record time. This guide provides a complete 90-day roadmap for SaaS MVP development, covering everything from discovery to launch.
The 90-Day MVP Timeline
Your week-by-week blueprint for success:
What Is a SaaS MVP?
A Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is the simplest version of your SaaS that delivers real value to users. It's not a prototype, not a beta, and not cheap—it's a focused product that solves one problem exceptionally well.
MVP is NOT
A prototype, demo, or concept mockup
MVP is NOT
An unfinished beta with missing features
MVP IS
A focused product that creates genuine value
Phase 1: Discovery (Week 1-3)
Validate Before You Build
Phase 2: Development (Week 4-8)
| Week | Focus | Deliverables |
|---|---|---|
| Week 4 | Tech stack selection | Architecture decisions, dev environment |
| Week 5-6 | Sprint 1-2: Core features | Auth, dashboard, primary feature |
| Week 7 | Sprint 3: Data handling | Basic reporting, data flows |
| Week 8 | Integration & monitoring | Error tracking, session recording |
Recommended Tech Stack
Traditional Development
No-Code/Low-Code Options
Phase 3: Testing (Week 9-10)
Week 9: Internal Testing
Your team uses the product daily. Fix obvious bugs and usability issues. Create test scenarios that mirror real user workflows.
Week 10 Start: Closed Alpha
Invite 10-15 early users from your validation interviews. Give them specific tasks to complete. Watch how they actually use the product.
Week 10 End: External Beta
Expand to 50-100 beta users. Collect structured feedback via Typeform or Google Forms. Track behavior with Mixpanel.
Phase 4: Launch (Week 11-13)
Pre-Launch Checklist
Week 11: Final bug fixes, performance optimization, security audit
Week 12: Marketing assets, landing page, documentation
Week 13: Public launch, monitoring, support setup
6 MVP Pitfalls to Avoid
1. Building Too Many Features
Every additional feature adds complexity, bugs, and time. Build one almost perfect feature instead of ten poor ones.
2. Ignoring User Interviews
Your assumptions are probably wrong. Interview users before, during, and after development—make it ongoing, not one-time.
3. Skipping Early Testing
Don't wait until launch to test with real users. Get feedback early and often. External testing reveals issues you'd never notice.
4. Delaying Monetization Tests
Figure out pricing and payment flows early. Many great products fail because founders wait too long to test monetization.
5. No Post-MVP Planning
Your MVP is just the beginning. Plan your next 2-3 major releases before you launch. User feedback will guide refinements.
6. Perfectionism Paralysis
Good enough is better than perfect if perfect never ships. Your MVP will have bugs—that's normal. Ship when it creates value.
Measuring MVP Success
Key SaaS KPIs
Analytics Tools
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you really build a SaaS MVP in 90 days?
Yes, with the right methodology. The key is ruthless focus on one core use case, using proven technologies (not cutting-edge), and avoiding feature creep. No-code tools can reduce development time by 60-80% for simpler applications.
What's the best tech stack for a SaaS MVP?
Choose proven technologies: React/Vue.js for frontend, Node.js or Python for backend, PostgreSQL for database, and AWS/GCP for cloud. Avoid cutting-edge tech that adds risk. For simpler apps, consider no-code tools like Bubble.
How many features should an MVP have?
As few as possible. Focus on one core feature that solves one problem exceptionally well. Build one almost perfect feature instead of ten poor ones. Every additional feature adds complexity, bugs, and development time.
When should I test monetization?
Include pricing pages and payment flows in your MVP, even if you offer free trials. Many great products fail because founders wait too long to test monetization. Figure out pricing and payment flows early.
How many beta testers do I need?
Start with 10-15 early users for closed alpha testing—ideally from your validation interviews. Give them specific tasks. Then expand to 50-100 beta users for broader feedback before public launch.
What if my MVP isn't perfect?
That's expected and normal. Good enough is better than perfect if perfect never ships. Your MVP will have bugs and missing features. Ship when your product creates genuine value for users, not when it's flawless.
Ready to Build Your SaaS MVP?
Boundev helps startups go from idea to launched product in 90 days or less with our proven MVP development methodology.
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