It's another part of the software lifecycleVarious types of user research can be used throughout the software lifecycle to address various challenges. For example, user stories can help to prioritize features requests. Usability testing can help refine future designs. Etc.
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Benefits of user-friendly software:
Studies have shown a wide variety of benefits
when usability is included in the product cycle,
e.g., lowered development costs, increased
sales, and reduced support costs. User research
can directly impact end users’ effectiveness
with the product – a quantify-able property that
can be used in marketing. 
Usability Studies
Interaction Design