Understand the work first.
Define the problem, constraints and a useful next step before committing to a build.
Bring a real example
Explain a recent task: who was involved, what happened, where it became difficult and what the effect was. Use anonymised examples. Do not include customer records, credentials or confidential documents in the enquiry.
Explore the options
Consider existing tools and process changes alongside custom software. Identify access, integration, operating and budget constraints. Discovery can conclude that a new build is unnecessary.
Agree the next step
A proposed scope should state the intended outcome, responsibilities, acceptance checks and important exclusions. Any paid discovery work needs its own agreed scope and fee. A preliminary conversation is not a fixed quote.