Technical Debt
Technical Debt is shortcuts in code that save time now but create more work later. Like credit card debt—sometimes worth it for speed, but it accumulates interest if you don't pay it down.
Definition
Shortcuts in code that save time now but create more work later. Like credit card debt—sometimes worth it for speed, but it accumulates interest if you don't pay it down.
Example
You hardcode some values to ship faster. That's tech debt. Later, you'll spend time making it configurable properly.
Related Terms
More Business & Contracting Terms
MVP - Minimum Viable Product
The simplest version of your product that still solves the core problem. Ship fast, learn from real users, then improve. Don't build everything at once.
POC - Proof of Concept
A small test to prove an idea actually works before investing serious time or money. It's not a product—it's evidence that building the product makes sense.
Prototype
A working model of your product used for testing and feedback. It doesn't need to be pretty or complete—it needs to let people interact with your idea.
Wireframe
A basic sketch showing the layout and structure of a page without any design polish. Think blueprint, not finished building. It's about where things go, not how they look.
Mockup
A high-fidelity visual design showing exactly how the final product will look. Unlike wireframes, mockups include colors, typography, and real content.