concept-first development

noun phrase

UK /ˈkɒnsɛpt fɜːst dɪˈvɛləpmənt/

US /ˈkɑːnsɛpt fɜːrst dɪˈvɛləpmənt/

A way of making things where you plan the big idea before you build it.

The team used concept-first development to sketch the game's story before writing any code.

SYNONYMS

idea-led design concept-driven building planning-first approach vision-first method

RELATED WORDS

prototyping design thinking roadmap ideation blueprint

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A software method where the core idea is tested with users before full coding begins.

Concept-first development saved them months by revealing the feature was confusing early on.

3. An art or media process that locks the visual concept before production starts.

Concept-first development gave the animators a clear style guide to follow.

4. A business strategy that defines the product's purpose before funding the build.

Investors liked their concept-first development plan because the goals were clear.