Whether you want to explore launching a new open-source project, dip your toe into freelance work, or identify a good startup idea, getting direct input from many potential users or customers will ensure that your venture is received with enthusiasm and receives the support necessary to be sustainable over the long term. Unlike user experience research that asks about specific features of specific software already in development, customer discovery is a process of learning what the customer most needs and wants. In this session, the presenter will conduct and debrief several abbreviated interviews to demonstrate effective techniques for uncovering valuable unexpected data to inform new ventures and pivots.