From deadstock problem to MVP

Before defining any solution, I invested in understanding the problem deeply. I conducted structured user interviews using the Jobs-to-be-Done framework - focusing not on what users do, but on what outcome they are trying to achieve and what is getting in the way. I built 2–3 user personas based on roles within large fashion brands who would interact with the system, and synthesised interview findings into thematic clusters to arrive at a clear, validated problem statement.

With a validated problem statement in hand, I moved into solution design. I defined the product vision using a Product Vision Board - aligning the target user, their needs, the product's key features, business goals, and competitive landscape on a single canvas. I built a Competitive Matrix to map existing solutions against key dimensions - features, pricing, target users, and gaps - to understand where the market was underserved and where the product could differentiate. To define what to build first, I used a Value vs. Effort Matrix to prioritise features, then translated priorities into a User Story Map and a structured Product Backlog. Hypotheses were documented in a Hypothesis Table - each mapped to an assumption being tested, a test method, and success criteria.

I translated the MVP scope into a low-fidelity interactive prototype using Google AI Studio, covering the core user flows. Rather than building for completeness, I built for testability - focusing on the flows most critical to validating the core hypothesis. I developed a User Testing Protocol, ran sessions with 5–7 users, documented findings in a User Testing Results Summary, and iterated on the design based on what I learned.

With a validated prototype, I shifted focus to launch readiness and measurement. I defined the North Star metric as the volume of deadstock inventory successfully matched to upcycling partners per month - the single number that captures whether the product is delivering its core value. Not just that brands are tracking deadstock, but that material is actually moving through upcycling channels. I developed a GTM plan covering market segmentation, positioning, channel strategy, and the steps needed to move from prototype to first users.