What Is Lean Canvas?
The Lean Canvas is a one-page business plan method that helps developers map out the chief points of their business idea.
The plan focuses on problems, solutions, and key metrics in specific fields, such as app development. Its end goal is to replace long and dull traditional business plans and make project planning less complicated and time-consuming.
This business model was created by Ash Maurya, and it is an adaptation of Alexander Osterwalder’s Business Model Canvas. Despite having a different purpose and structure, Maurya kept some similarities, such as the division of the plan into 9 segments.
These 9 blocks compose the process of app development through the Lean Canvas plan. Learn more about each below:
1. Problem
One of the keys to success is problem-solving. Users seek a brand that better addresses and fixes their pain points, so this first section is one of the most important. Use this box to write down the most relevant problems your product should be able to solve.
2. Customer Segments
It is vital to put a face to the problem, so to speak. Determine who your target audience is here. Knowing your customers or potential customers will help you define the best strategy.
3. Unique Value Proposition
In this block, you will explain why your potential customers should choose your app. Create a proposition that highlights your product’s competitive edge in a clear, compelling style.
4. Solution
Customers are drawn to brands that offer them concrete ways to overcome issues. So meet your user’s expectations by presenting a valuable, relevant solution.
.
5. Channels
Decide how you will connect with your audience before, during, and after purchase. You can choose from an array of options: social media, email, mouth marketing, and even old-school platforms, such as television and radio.
6. Revenue Streams
Do some research to find the best pricing model for your app. Furthermore, investigate how much your customers are willing to pay for what you offer and set minimum charges to guarantee the success of your business.
7. Cost Structure
This segment contains useful information that should influence the previous block. Calculate your monthly expenses with the development of your product. This helps you build a financially sustainable business.
8. Key Metrics
Key metrics allow you to monitor the performance of your business and the way users interact with your product. It is important to track this type of information to be fully aware of how business is going.
9. Unfair Advantage
Find something cool about your app that no other company has. It has to be something that cannot be copied or acquired. Use that as your unfair advantage, that is, something that only your brand can offer. It can be anything relevant, from a unique team to exclusive information.
How Lean Canvas Can Help in App Development
Lean Canvas is an indispensable tool for every app developer who wants to maximize creativity without feeling lost in a sea of ideas.
App development is a booming market mainly dominated by young developers so packed with ideas and projects that they struggle to keep up with their thoughts. That is where a concise business plan comes in. A segmented, simplified template makes it easier for developers to register their ideas without investing too much time in what is usually a highly complex and monotonous process.
Additionally, Lean Canvas puts app developers on the right path, that is, each block requires reflection on key aspects of successful app development, such as getting to know your user, registering pain points, and presenting solutions.
Another way in which Lean Canvas can make a difference in app development is by being an adequate tool for teams of any size. It is not uncommon to find freelancers or teams of no more than three in this field. It is also common to see large teams within big companies or agencies. For this reason, it is helpful to have a versatile method that is also effective.