What to do instead of asking users what they want

User research can be misleading if product developers rely solely on direct responses to questions about desired features, as users often lack the technical expertise to envision innovative solutions. Instead, developers should focus on understanding users' underlying needs and pain points through probing questions and interpreting qualitative data. By combining insights from user interviews with robust product analytics, developers can create more effective solutions that align with user experiences and motivations. This approach helps bridge the gap between user perception and actual needs, ultimately leading to better product-market fit. Joseph Pacheco, founder of App Boss, emphasizes the importance of synthesizing data from both user feedback and analytics to develop successful apps, drawing on his extensive experience in app development and technical interviewing.