0001 mvp features

MVP Features

• Status: Accepted
• Deciders: Michael Donaldson, Richard Duong, Brandon Liu, Bryant Shao, Nicole Trappe, Vy Truong, Felix Zhang, Lulu Zhu
• Date: 2021-01-28

Context and Problem Statement

What are the most essential aspects of a Pomodoro timer that even the most basic one should have? Essentially, what should be the initial features of the first iteration of the project (minimum viable product)?

Considered Options

• Central timer with buttons
• Traditional vs customizable
• Manual vs automation
• Minimalist UI

Decision Outcome

Chosen options:

• Central timer with buttons, because it’s an essential component to any Pomodoro timer
• Traditional Pomodoro technique, because it’s an easier goal to hit initially and gives us flexibility to add possible customization later
• Manual timer, because it’s an easier goal to hit initially and gives us flexibility to possibly add automation if wanted in later iterations
• Minimalist UI, because it’s better to focus on the core functionality before we add more features/design

Pros and Cons of the Options

Central timer with buttons

• Pros: Essential feature of any Pomodoro timer, puts focus to main feature of the app

Traditional Pomodoro technique

This refers to the standard Pomodoro technique practice of working for 25 minutes, taking a short break for 5 minutes, and taking a longer break after 4 of these Pomodoros.

• Pros: Easier to implement on initial run, forced/strict format can be helpful to those with less self-control
• Cons: Less flexibility/customization for the user’s needs regarding break lengths, work session lengths, etc.

Manual timer

This refers to the user manually having to operate the timer, i.e manually clicking start before each work session and break.

• Pros: Easier to implement on initial run, gives user more freedom in timing themselves
• Cons: Less intuitive, requires that user knows what Pomodoro technique is, requires extra effort in enforcing the Pomodoro technique

Minimalist UI

• Pros: More user friendly, emphasizes idea of productivity, puts more focus to features of application
• Cons: May come across as uninspired or not unique compared to other Pomodoro timers