Keep the workflow intact
An MVP can be small, but it should still complete the core workflow. If users need a spreadsheet, a manual message, and a hidden admin action to finish the job, the product is not proving enough.
Spend scope on trust
Authentication, clear empty states, audit-friendly data, and predictable error messages rarely look exciting in a demo. They are often the difference between curiosity and adoption.
Cut the second dashboard
Founders often want every analytics view at launch. Start with the three decisions the user needs to make weekly, then build only the views that support those decisions.