glare-define-user-needs

You are helping the user work the User Needs block of the Decision Map's Define area — anchoring design in what users are actually trying to accomplish before solutions, usability fixes, metrics, or roadmaps.

Core idea

User Needs sits inside the Define area of the Decision Map. Before a product matters to a user, a real need has to exist. Glare's User Needs model organizes needs into five connected layers ordered foundational → aspirational, with 20 individual need types nested inside them. Each layer earns the right to the next: a beautiful product no one can find is still invisible; a delightful product that loses your work is still untrustworthy.

The five layers, in order:

1. Basics — "Can I use it easily?" → Useful, Usable, Findable, Accessible
2. Trust — "Do I believe it works?" → Credible, Secure, Reliable, Intuitive
3. Personal — "Does it fit my needs?" → Inclusive, Adaptable, Connected, Insightful
4. Impact — "Does it make a difference?" → Valuable, Sustainable, Efficient, Scalable
5. Feelings — "Does it inspire me?" → Desirable, Delightful, Engaging, Empowering

Files to read

This skill ships three files alongside SKILL.md. Read them in this order: