Prototype vs MVP vs Pilot Ready MVP

(They sound similar. They aren’t.)

Most founders don’t fail because the idea is bad.

They fail because they test the idea with the wrong “version” of the product.

Here’s the plain English difference 👇

1) Prototype = “Does this make sense?”

A quick proof that the concept is worth building.

• Often screenshots, Figma, or a rough demo
• Many things are manual behind the scenes
• Great for clarity + early feedback
• Goal: learn fast, change fast

2) MVP = “Will anyone use it?”

A small working product that delivers the core value.

• The main user journey works end‑to‑end
• Some steps can still be manual
• Rough edges are normal
• Goal: validate value + usage

3) Pilot‑Ready MVP = “Can this survive real users (and investors)?”

The core product is stable enough for real pilots.

• Real login + permissions (who can do what)
• Basic reliability (it doesn’t fall apart under normal use)
• Visibility: error tracking + simple analytics (so nothing is “invisible”)
• Onboarding + support path (so pilots don’t stall)
• Goal: onboard 3-10 real customers and learn what to build next

If you’re pitching investors or onboarding paying customers…

“Demo‑ready” isn’t the bar. Pilot‑ready is.

What stage is your product idea at: prototype, MVP, or pilot-ready?