Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Over the past decade, the relationship between minimum viable product (MVP) development and user retention in digital products has become a subject of considerable debate among scholars and industry practitioners alike, particularly within the context of Nigeria where operating conditions differ markedly from more developed markets.

Within the context of Nigeria, this relationship carries particular significance. Organizations in this setting operate under a distinct combination of economic, regulatory, and market conditions that may amplify or dampen the effect of minimum viable product (MVP) development on user retention in digital products, making a context-specific inquiry both timely and necessary.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

While minimum viable product (MVP) development is widely discussed in policy and industry circles, empirical evidence on its actual effect on user retention in digital products within Nigeria remains sparse and, in places, contradictory. This lack of localized, rigorous evidence makes it difficult for decision-makers to know with confidence whether current approaches to minimum viable product (MVP) development are helping or hindering user retention in digital products — a gap this study sets out to close.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To examine the effect of Minimum Viable Product (MVP) Development on user retention in digital products in Nigeria.
2. To assess the extent to which minimum viable product (MVP) development influences user retention in digital products within the study area.
3. To identify the challenges associated with minimum viable product (MVP) development in relation to user retention in digital products.
4. To recommend strategies for optimizing minimum viable product (MVP) development in order to improve user retention in digital products.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of minimum viable product (MVP) development on user retention in digital products in Nigeria?
2. To what extent does minimum viable product (MVP) development influence user retention in digital products within the study area?
3. What challenges are associated with minimum viable product (MVP) development in relation to user retention in digital products?
4. What strategies can be adopted to optimize minimum viable product (MVP) development in order to improve user retention in digital products?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to a range of stakeholders. For policymakers and regulators, the findings offer evidence to guide the design of frameworks that support healthier outcomes around user retention in digital products. For managers and practitioners within Nigeria, the study provides practical insight into how minimum viable product (MVP) development can be better managed. Finally, it contributes to the academic literature on product management by extending existing knowledge into a specific empirical context, and offers a reference point for future researchers.

1.6 Scope of the Study

In terms of scope, this study confines itself to Nigeria, focusing specifically on how minimum viable product (MVP) development relates to user retention in digital products within that setting. Findings are interpreted within these boundaries rather than as universal claims applicable to every organization or market.