agile product discovery process

Agile Product Discovery Process In Phases

The agile product discovery process is a continuous process. However, we can easily break these down into phases.

Phases are classified into four. Which are discovery, alpha, beta, and live, respectively. Let’s delve deeper into these. We’ll discuss: what is inclusive of these four stages? How can each member play their part?

The Discovery Phase

This is the initial stage of the process. However, this must not be rushed. This stage is critical since this is where all the major understanding takes place. Again, a better understanding is for better decision making.

Discovery includes understanding consumer’s needs, wants, and concerns, and challenges. These therefore are built into insights. Moreover, better understanding also means better priorities in addressing concerns.

It is recommended not to rush this phase. Thus, the discovery phase often ranges from 1 to 2 months.

Remember These Prior The Discovery

  • Take note of the compliance matters. Will handling this discovery affect some policies?
  • Also, take note of any new chances of innovation. 
  • Pick the right members for the team
  • Understand the process of budgeting and reporting

The Team Must Include The Following Roles

  • Consumer Researcher
  • The Designer
  • Service Owner
  • Developer 

Furthermore, if it seems unrealistic to continue, then don’t. It is a good thing that you’ve discovered this early on the process. Shall prevent more investment failure. Most especially, time.

The Alpha Phase

The next step to proceed is the Alpha phase. This is the time where theories built are being tested. And prototypes and models are being started to build now on. These prototypes are then to be tested by users.

This phase is more likely the same with discovery. It should last up to 2 months until completion.

This phase also has Three Stages. Namely, inception, iteration, and conclusion.

Inception Stage

This stage aims to set clear goals to meet the consumer’s needs. On the other hand, this is another chance to see the underlying risks of the proposal.

Iteration Stage

Time to build the theories into prototypes. Do not limit the building. Make use of this stage to build and test, and learn, and further innovate where possible.

The building stops when you meet the users’ needs.

Conclusion 

The decision comes when you have to choose whether to continue or end the project. Make sure of the feasibility of the project. And not to waste investments.

Beta Phase

Being the third phase, this should not take that long. More product refinements are being done in this phase. 

This phase shall ensure the customer’s satisfaction with the product. Yet, ongoing research and study are encouraged. 

Moreover, this phase should bring solutions. Solutions to both technical and challenges with the process itself.

Furthermore, before the public release, a private beta release should be done first. 

Live Phase

The final part of the process. This is the part where the release of the product takes place. However, though it is the final phase, more studies should continue.

The product should then be tested by the public first. More reviews will then come. That means, more improvements are to be implemented too. 

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