[IxDA Discuss] Users' ability to predict features they "need"

[AJKock]

I think the problem lies with the fact that designers assume people
will develop a need for a specific product, when actually people
develope functional needs (they want to accomplish stuff). Products
serve these functions either well or poorly.

People don't develop a need for an iphone (that comes after it became
a fashion statement). People have a need to accomplish certain tasks
which might involve: staying in contact with friends, checking your
favourite websites, want an phone that is easy to understand, etc.

You would be better off observing your users over a time period and
see if they develop a need for communication (forum), frequent news
updates (blog) or instant communication (chat services like twitter,
skype, etc.).

Also look at your frequent visitors / users (look at what their needs
are) as they might be the trend setters and they will convince others
to use your new services. Yes, I am referring to books like The
Turning Point and Purple Cow for inspiration on understanding and
"predicting" your users future needs.