What is the purpose of conducting user research before a design sprint?

Conducting user research before a design sprint is essential because it allows designers and teams to gather valuable user insights that inform the sprint process. User research helps in understanding the needs, preferences, pain points, and behaviors of the target audience. By collecting this information, teams can ensure that the solutions they develop during the sprint are grounded in real user data, making them more relevant and effective.

The insights gleaned from user research lead to better decision-making, allowing designers to prioritize features that matter most to users and to develop a more user-centered approach. This groundwork enables the team to create prototypes that directly address user needs, ultimately enhancing the overall design outcome. By prioritizing insights from potential users, the design sprint can be more focused, effective, and aligned with creating a product that resonates well with its audience.