A successful project is not defined by the number of features. It is defined by a clear problem, measurable outcomes and a delivery model that manages risk.
Start with discovery
Map users, decisions, workflows, current pain points, systems and constraints. Separate essential outcomes from assumptions and optional ideas.
Design the MVP and architecture together
The MVP should validate the most important workflow while the architecture protects future integration, security and scalability requirements.
Plan operations before launch
Monitoring, backup, security, user support, deployment and ownership should be designed before production, not added after the first incident.