Experiment Board: From idea to validation in the digital mental health business

Abstract

This work validates a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for digital psychological support by integrating the Experiment Board and Lean Startup, applying sequential qualitative and quantitative validation with real users. The contribution lies in showing how the Experiment Board can function as a traceability system that connects findings with design and business model decisions. The research was conducted in two phases: (1) opportunity validation through semi-structured interviews with seven users, analyzed using deductive qualitative coding and axial categorization, identifying access barriers (cost, time, stigma, and privacy) and a preference for secure and personalized digital solutions, confirming that 71% turn to digital alternatives in the face of these barriers; these findings guided the initial MVP iterations. (2) solution validation with thirty users, obtaining a Net Promoter Score of +20 and 53.3% promoters. Logistic regression analysis identified ease of use, personalization, and perceived value as critical predictors of adoption. The results support the development of an evidence-based Lean Canvas, reducing risks in digital mental health.