Start software discovery with the work, not the dashboard

Watch the process end to end

Identify where information comes from, who changes it and what the next person needs. A useful workflow map includes real exceptions, not just the ideal path.

Name the important decisions

Permissions, status changes and approval rules affect how the system should behave. Make those decisions explicit before designing the interface around them.

Build a focused first release

Choose a scope that solves a defined operational problem. Document the remaining needs and use real feedback to prioritize the next iteration.