Before the discovery call: what helps most
Field note · 2026
A 30-minute call is enough to learn whether we are a good fit. It is not enough to solve a whole programme—so the best pre-call work is small, specific, and honest about your context and constraints.
What to send in advance (if you can)
- What “better” would look like in one or two sentences—not a full charter.
- Who is in the team today (roles, not names if you prefer) and any fixed deadlines.
- Whether you are exploring coaching, embedded support, or a time-boxed engagement first.
What I will be listening for
Clarity of goal, who can say “yes” to change, and where the friction really lives—backlog, ceremonies, communication with stakeholders, or something else. I am not looking for a perfect process diagram; I am looking for a shared place to start.
After the call
You should leave with a sense of the next step or an honest “not a fit for now”—either is a good outcome. If we continue, I will suggest a small piece of work we can do first so value shows up before the scope inflates.