What role does user feedback play in iterative design?

User feedback plays a crucial role in iterative design as it directly influences the evaluation and improvement of usability. In an iterative design process, products are developed through repeated cycles (iterations), and each cycle incorporates feedback from users to refine and enhance the design. This feedback is instrumental in identifying usability issues that may not have been apparent to the design team, thereby helping to create a more user-friendly product.

By gathering insights, preferences, and critiques from actual users, the design team can make informed decisions about what changes to implement in future iterations. This process fosters a collaborative relationship between designers and users, leading to a product that better meets user needs and expectations. Ultimately, leveraging user feedback not only enhances usability but also increases user satisfaction and engagement with the final product.