Start Every Software Initiative with a Lean Canvas (Free Download Inside!)

Before I tackle a new software initiative, I always take a step back with the product team - and start with a Lean Canvas.

Why? Because it forces us to focus on the problem and not just jump to the solutions.

As software engineers and architects, we love to build things. We often have solutions in mind before we really understand the actual problem.

But this "solution-oriented" thinking is a trap. Without a deep understanding of the problem, we miss the crucial connection between problem and solution.

That's why I strongly recommend:
Use the Lean Canvas. Work on it together with others. Design your business model early and involve the engineers. The business model or business case always contains some architectural drivers. Align your team and key stakeholders on what is really important.

Interestingly, I couldn’t find a good, simple PDF version of the Lean Canvas online - so I created one myself!

👉 You can download it here for free.

Have fun. Stay obsessed with the problem, not your favourite solution. 🚀