I don't always take on outside projects, but when I do, I start with five questions.

Answer them about a problem you have now. A few sentences each is enough.

What's the goal right now?

And how will you know when it's done.

If this gets fixed, what is it worth?

In dollars, hours, or both. A rough number is fine.

Why hasn't it been solved yet?

What's been tried, and what stopped it.

What breaks first if volume doubles?

Customers, transactions, staff. Whatever drives your work.

Six months from now, this failed. Why?

List the reasons.

Who's asking?

So I know who to reply to.

Name

Email

Organization (optional)

Who sent you here (optional)

I'll reply within a few days. If it's not a fit, I'll say so and point you somewhere better if I can.