1. Describe the situation before the solution.
Write down who might experience the problem, when it appears and how they currently handle it. Keep the description specific. “People find this task difficult” gives you less to investigate than a clear account of the task and the circumstances around it.
2. Identify your biggest assumption.
Ask what would need to be true for the idea to be useful. Perhaps the problem happens often, the current workaround takes too much effort or the proposed result matters to a particular group. Choose one assumption rather than trying to prove the entire idea at once.
3. Listen before you pitch.
Speak with a few people who know the situation. Ask about the last time they faced it, what they did and what was difficult. Avoid steering them towards agreement. Record what they actually say, including responses that challenge your original view.
4. Make the smallest useful demonstration.
A sketch, a simple walkthrough or a manual demonstration may be enough to start a conversation. Explain what is a concept and what already works. Choose a test that helps you investigate the assumption without building a complete product first.
5. Decide what you learned.
Before the test, write down what you want to understand. Afterwards, compare that question with your observations. You might refine the audience, change the problem or decide to explore something else. A useful test can change your direction.
The first milestone is a clearer understanding of the problem. Let that understanding guide the next piece of work.