I came across this term for the first time this past week.

The phrase threw me off because I'm so used to hearing about its sister, minimum viable product, I hadn't considered there was a term out there focused on joy and user satisfaction, vital factors for any lovable product.

It's been over a decade since MVP joined the product management lexicon and since then, consumer expectations have significantly evolved. Half-baked functionality is not enough in an age where AI accelerates the product development lifecycle—people want experiences that feel intuitive, engaging, and yes, delightful.

Sometimes, it's the smallest things—a clever animation, seamless usability, or a thoughtful touch—that leave a lasting impression. An MDP isn't about perfection; it's about ensuring even the simplest version of a product creates joy. In a world of endless options, delight isn't a bonus; it's a competitive advantage.

Now, I find myself rethinking "minimum". Instead of asking, What's the least we can do to launch? I'm asking, What's the least we can do to make people love this?