How do you prioritize features when user feedback conflicts with your long-term vision?

Question

1. First, it's essential to thoroughly analyze user feedback and uncover the underlying needs. Oftentimes, users are not pointing out a specific problem but expressing dissatisfaction with a particular scenario, which might already be part of your long-term roadmap.

2. If there is indeed a significant conflict between user feedback and the product vision, I suggest being transparent rather than hiding the truth. It's even better to communicate openly with users-perhaps even recommending a product that might better suit their needs.

In conclusion, I believe that the long-term value of a product will always shine through, and maintaining a good relationship with users is undoubtedly a critical factor.

Beckett Thomas · Accepted Answer

Analyze user feedback, uncover core needs, and communicate openly. If there's a conflict, transparency is key, and long-term vision should guide decisions.

Zhiqi Shi · Answer

@busmark_w_nika Small companies face greater survival pressure, so it's understandable. Big companies usually have complex review process, which allow for more adjustments to be made, sometimes it's not that difficult.

Zhiqi Shi · Answer

@busmark_w_nika I often encountered this kind of situation when I was in a big company.

Business Marketing with Nika · Answer

@zhiqi_shi This is very hard because the bigger company is and a lot of people in management, the worse for new suggested and applied features. But I have heard many founders to apply those who are asked by already paying users/clients. If there is a massive inquiry.

Steven Clark · Answer

I feel like being upfront with users about why certain features aren't a priority right now could go a long way in keeping their trust.

Answer

When user feedback conflicts with long-term vision, prioritize by analyzing the underlying needs and commonalities in the feedback to identify what aligns best with strategic goals. Utilize frameworks like RICE or MoSCoW to objectively evaluate the impact and feasibility of features, ensuring transparency with stakeholders about the decision-making process

Owen Perry · Answer

I completley  agree with your approach of digging deeper into user feedback to understand the core needs.

Henry Lindsey · Answer

Honesty about why features are deprioritized helps me manage expectations.

Evan Washington · Answer

Aligning feedback with the bigger picture is important, but clear communication keeps me focused.

Conor Thomson · Answer

Staying upfront about the vision helps me build trust, even when feedback doesn't align.

David Baker · Answer

Diving into feedback helps me find the core issue. It's usually frustrating with something already planned.

Henry · Answer

We prioritize features by balancing user feedback with our long-term vision. While user needs are crucial, we also consider how new features align with our strategic goals. We aim to create a product that both addresses current user needs and sets a foundation for future growth, ensuring long-term value for all users.

Answer

I imagine prioritizing must  be a mix of listening to users and sticking to what you believe is right for the future.

Answer

"That’s a great question and a challenge many teams face! I believe it’s all about finding a balance. Start by evaluating how the feedback aligns with your core values and long-term goals. If the feedback solves a pressing user pain point or enhances the overall user experience significantly, it might be worth prioritizing—even if it requires adjusting your vision slightly.

On the other hand, if the feedback conflicts with your vision but represents a valid concern, consider creating a roadmap where you address it in a way that stays true to your overarching goals. Transparent communication with users about why certain decisions are made also helps maintain trust.

How do you handle this in your projects?"

sietse schelpe · Answer

Listen analyze and go to drawingmap, than market research

How do you prioritize features when user feedback conflicts with your long-term vision?

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