Building minimum end-to-end functionality before refinement
Core Idea: Create the simplest possible end-to-end implementation with all necessary components before refining individual pieces, enabling early validation and clear direction for improvements.
Key Elements
- Originated as a software development pattern to accelerate feedback cycles
- Described as the "minimum, crappy implementation" that demonstrates all essential pieces working together
- Focuses on end-to-end functionality rather than component perfection
- Provides immediate insights into integration challenges and system architecture
- Particularly valuable with LLM coding assistance to quickly reach a functional state
Implementation Strategies
- Identify the minimal set of components needed for end-to-end functionality
- Implement the simplest version of each component that satisfies basic requirements
- Connect components with minimal integration code to create a functional system
- Use the working system to identify priority areas for improvement
- Leverage LLMs to rapidly generate skeleton implementations
Benefits
- Early discovery of integration issues and architectural flaws
- Clearer prioritization of subsequent development efforts
- Accelerated path to a usable, testable system
- Reduced risk of investing in components that won't integrate properly
- Ability to demonstrate progress to stakeholders early in development
Connections
- Related Concepts: Mise en Place (proper preparation), Bulldozer Method (persistent effort)
- Broader Context: Agile Development Principles (iterative improvement)
- Applications: Rapid Prototyping (quickly testing ideas), MVP Development (minimum viable products)
References
- C2 Wiki. "Walking Skeleton." https://wiki.c2.com/?WalkingSkeleton
- Edward Z. Yang (2025). "AI Blindspots" collection, March 2025.
#software-development #prototyping #agile #system-design
Connections:
Sources:
- From: AI Blindspots