How can you use user research to validate product features in a lean startup?

This reminds me once when we planned to upgrade our existing product, which was an MVP until then. The MVP included all the must-haves according to the MoSCoW prioritization, and we had internally narrowed down a few should-haves and could-haves for the next phase of the release. After releasing the MVP and receiving initial feedback, we revisited the should-haves and could-haves that we had previously set aside. We then tailored our user research around these features. For instance, if we had postponed the inclusion of feature X, we included a related question in our research instrument to assess the importance of that feature. This helped us determine whether it was genuinely a should-have, could-have or a won't-have feature.

Start by clearly identifying the problem you're trying to solve with your feature. What pain points are your users facing? Formulate a specific hypothesis about how your feature will address that problem. What value will it provide to users?

The section rightly emphasizes the importance of having a clear problem statement and hypothesis before starting user research. However, it's critical to remember that these are not static. As you gather data and learn more about your users, your understanding of the problem and your hypothesis may evolve. It's also important to ensure that your hypothesis is measurable and directly linked to key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess its impact on user satisfaction and retention accurately.

Take time to write down what problem you are trying to solve for the customer. Be specific and reference any qual/quant insights you have. Then write down your hypothesis. Be clear about what you expect to happen based on the change you're proposing to make with clear, data-informed logic.

In a lean startup, user research is crucial for validating product features efficiently. Start by defining clear hypotheses about the features you want to test. Use lean research methods like surveys, interviews, or prototype testing to gather feedback from target users. Analyze the data quickly and iteratively to validate or iterate on features based on user insights. By incorporating user feedback early and often, you can ensure that your product features align with user needs and preferences while minimizing wasted time and resources.

This isn't about throwing questions into the void... It's about strategic inquiry. In a lean startup, every feature must be a direct response to user needs. Design your research to validate not just the appeal of a feature but its necessity. Choose methods that provide actionable insights—whether it's surveys for quantitative data or interviews for qualitative depth. Your questions should not only test hypotheses but also reveal unexpected user behaviors and preferences. Remember, user research in a lean environment is about agility. Be ready to pivot based on what you learn, ensuring that every product feature is backed by solid user demand. It's lean, mean, and user-focused. That's the path to building features that truly matter.

The selection of the research method is indeed crucial in product management. It's important to remember that no one method is superior to others. The choice should be driven by the nature of the problem, the hypothesis, and the kind of data needed. For instance, interviews might be better for gathering in-depth insights, while surveys could be more effective for quantitative data. Also, it's beneficial to use a combination of methods for a more comprehensive understanding.

It is important to guide the team that will conduct the interviews to ensure that everyone is prepared to apply the chosen method. Training in how to ask questions can yield high dividends, eliminating potential sources of bias. Modifying a term, a phrase, or even the order of the questions can result in a decisive difference in the response obtained

Choose a research method that aligns with your budget and timeline. Consider interviews, surveys, usability testing, A/B testing, or a combination based on your needs. Craft clear and concise questions that directly test your hypothesis. Avoid leading questions and focus on understanding user behavior and motivations.

Select a research method that aligns with your hypothesis and the stage of your product. Specifically, methods have key attributes so it's important to choose the right research method: Generative = New idea generation Evaluative = Evaluating ideas and designs Qualitative = Small sample size, deep insight, exploration Quantitative = Large sample size, measurable, semi-objective insight Behavioral = Observe what people do Attitudinal = Listen to what people say Work with a skilled UX researcher on this and it will pay dividends.

Reach out to your target audience by sending them LinkedIn messages. 1 out of 5 people will respond. Make it easy for them to book a 30-minute session with you, and 1 out of 5 respondents will do so. Of those who book a session, 8 out of 10 will attend. This is a great opportunity for you to learn about your users' pain points, showcase your MVP, and gather valuable feedback.

This is a gold mine right here. If you can get real users to test out your feature, this would be an invaluable feat for your product. I always say that customers are the best product managers, the user stories they can orchestrate are gold for the product. Hence, try to get users testing out your features, provide feedback so you can make amendments along the way. It is also important to note to utilize proper data analytics tools so that you get the best hang of things and take into account which makes the most sense for you.

Testing with real users is where the rubber meets the road. In my opinion, small focused tests with users who closely match your target persona yield the most actionable insights. It's not just about whether they can use the feature, but how they use it and if it improves their experience in a meaningful way. During these sessions, observe not only the user's interactions with the feature but also their reactions and emotions. This helps to identify any friction points or areas of delight that you might have not anticipated.

Recruit participants representing your target audience. Focus on quality over quantity and ensure they have the relevant context. Present your feature and observe how they interact with it. Encourage their feedback through the chosen method.

From the PM experience, If you present a sketch and workflow with possible impact to your real users and relate with their pain area then it gives you confidence in whether it should be implemented or not. This is not something usability testing, but way before that, even before sketching hi-fidelity wireframe. I applied this approach to many upcoming features and gives me best adoption rate when it is in production.

Insights gathered from user testing forms the basis for iteration. This is where the lean startup methodology truly shines, as you take what you've learned and rapidly iterate on your solution. In my view, this often involves going back to the drawing board with the development and design teams to discuss the findings and brainstorm improvements. It's crucial to prioritize changes based on their potential impact on the user experience and the problem you're trying to solve.

Analyze the data and identify key insights. Did your hypothesis hold true? What did you learn about user needs and preferences? Use the learnings to iterate on your feature. Modify, pivot, or even discard it based on the feedback.

In product management, the process of iterating based on findings is crucial. It's not just about validating the product features but also about understanding the user's needs and problems. This process is iterative and continuous, as user needs and market trends change over time. It's also essential to share these findings with the team and stakeholders, as it fosters a culture of learning and continuous improvement.

o processo de itera??o é a chave para você analisar informa??es dos usuários, melhorar o produto para atender as expectativas e gera??o de valor para o cliente. A cada feedback você terá novas ideias até que chegue em um produto: desejavel, prático e viável financeiramente.

Focus on qualitative data: While quantitative data provides valuable insights, don't underestimate the power of user stories, pain points, and emotional responses. Be open to unexpected results: User research might reveal unforeseen needs or challenges. Embrace them as opportunities to learn and pivot. Prioritize the most impactful features: Don't try to research everything. Focus on validating features with the highest potential value and user impact. Share your learnings: Communicate your findings with your team and stakeholders to inform product development and future iterations.