In the research-to-operations (R2O) landscape, integrating user feedback into product and service development is essential for impactful outcomes. This session will investigate methods for tailoring research to innovate and refine products and services effectively. We'll address key questions: How can we ensure that our offerings meet and exceed user expectations? How do we confirm that these innovations effectively reach and benefit the intended audiences? What are the most effective strategies for preparing users for new technologies and services?
Aligned with the AMS 2025 themes, this session will focus on:
      - Assessing the current state of science, practice, and technology in user engagement,
         exploring how these elements can tackle existing challenges 
         in fostering resilient communities and a thriving planet.
       - Identifying persistent challenges in user engagement that need
          to be addressed to achieve these goals.
Participants will gain insights into various aspects of user engagement, such as developing and maintaining user relationships, understanding and leveraging user feedback for product and service enhancement, and preparing users through targeted education and support initiatives. This session promotes a comprehensive discussion on integrating user needs into decision-making processes that guide product and service development, featuring successful examples where user-driven information has been crucial in transitioning scientific insights into operational solutions.
We encourage contributions from both the R2O and User Engagement communities to explore ways to enhance the applicability and effectiveness of user feedback and needs analysis within NOAA's research and operational frameworks. This dialogue aims to deepen understanding of how to improve the user experience, ensuring that scientific advancements translate into practical, user-centric solutions.

Conveners: Renata Lana,  Martin Yapur, Thanh Vo – NOAA/NESDIS, Andy Latto, Glenn Kerr, Bill Sjoberg