About this template
Client discovery is the process of understanding what the client actually needs—not just what they ask for. Good discovery surfaces the real problem, uncovers constraints, and reveals what success looks like to the client.
Use this template during initial calls, stakeholder interviews, and needs assessments. It ensures you capture context that matters and leave with clarity on next steps.
What's inside
- Client background: company, industry, size, and relevant context
- Current situation: what's happening today—processes, tools, team
- Pain points: what's broken, frustrating, or inefficient
- Goals & desired outcomes: what success looks like to the client
- Constraints: budget, timeline, technical, organizational
- Stakeholders: who's involved, who decides, who's affected
- Questions to explore: open items to clarify
- Next steps: follow-up actions and timeline
Who it's for
Consultants, sales teams, account managers, freelancers, and agencies who need to understand client needs before proposing solutions or scoping work.
How to use it (best practices)
- Listen more than you talk: discovery is about understanding, not pitching.
- Ask "why" repeatedly: surface the root problem, not just symptoms.
- Capture quotes verbatim: the client's words reveal priorities and language.
- Clarify success criteria: ask "how will you know this worked?"
- End with clear next steps: who does what, by when.
Looking for a Notion / Google Docs / Word discovery notes template?
If you searched for a client discovery notes template for Notion (or Google Docs / Word), this structure works anywhere: copy the sections and adapt them to your tool. If you want something faster to fill during calls, you can also use this template instantly in Ununu.
FAQ
What is client discovery?
The process of understanding a client's situation, needs, and goals before proposing a solution. It typically happens during initial calls and stakeholder interviews.
What questions should I ask in a discovery call?
Focus on: What's the current situation? What's not working? What does success look like? What constraints exist? Who else should I talk to?
How do I avoid scope creep after discovery?
Document what's in and out of scope based on discovery findings. Get explicit agreement on boundaries before starting work.