User personas are fictional characters created to represent different segments of a target audience. They are based on research and data about real users, including their demographics, behaviors, needs, and goals. By developing user personas, businesses can better understand their customers and tailor their products or services to meet specific needs. These personas help guide design and marketing decisions, ensuring that the user experience is aligned with the expectations of the target audience. User personas often include details such as age, occupation, interests, and pain points, making it easier for teams to empathize with users and create solutions that resonate with them.