What Is Hypothesis-Driven Development?
Hypothesis-Driven Development is a technique that applies the scientific method to product development by turning assumptions about a feature’s or initiative’s value into testable hypotheses. It involves defining how success will be measured, then running experiments to validate or disprove those assumptions. This approach enables evidence-based decisions, reduces risk, and helps teams focus on delivering real value while avoiding waste.
Metaphor
It’s like betting on a new TV pilot with a test audience before greenlighting the full season.
You don’t fund 10 episodes until you know people want to keep watching.
Hypothesis-Driven Development uses evidence to guide investment, helping teams build only what’s proven to resonate.
Works Consulted
- An Explanation of Hypothesis-Driven Development | Scrum.org | Accessed 26 Dec. 2024.
- What is a Hypothesis | Scrum.org | Accessed 23 Jun. 2025.
Connections
follows:: Techniques