User research is the systematic study of target users and their requirements, adding realistic context and insights to product design. It's a way to step into your users' shoes, understanding their needs, behaviors, motivations, and pain points. User research goes beyond simply asking users what they want; it involves observing what they do, how they think, and why they make certain choices.
Key aspects of user research include:
- Gathering both qualitative and quantitative data about users
- Understanding user behavior in real-world contexts
- Identifying user needs and preferences
- Validating or challenging assumptions about users
- Informing design decisions with evidence-based insights