Pilot and Prototype Projects

Pilot Project

A pilot project is an initial small-scale implementation used to prove the viability of a project idea.  That is, the risk of a new idea and any deficiencies are identified before substantial resources are committed.  It’s usually a linear process:

  • Set the goals for the pilot
  • Decide an appropriate length of time to do the testing
  • Identify the location and test group
  • Develop the test plan
  • Implement the test and get feedback against the test plan
  • Address any challenges
  • Get sign off for the results

The original business case for the pilot may include the full implementation of the solution provided a stage gate exit (see footnote below) has been included. Whether it does or not is usually decided based on the perceived risk of a full implementation.  That is, included if there’s high confidence the pilot will be successful.

Footnote: If the business case includes funding for a full implementation, the stage gate exit is a condition where, if the pilot determines a full implementation is not viable, the project will be terminated and any unspent funds returned.


Prototype Project

A prototype project is typically where the solution is not fully defined and a ‘dummy’ version is needed to test functionality against the business requirements and inform the design of the production version.  That is, a working model of the product without having to build the entire solution.  It is an iterative process:

  • Confirm and document the requirements
  • Quick design
  • Build the prototype (the working model – see footnote below)
  • User evaluation
  • Repeat from first step until the user evaluation produces the required outcomes
  • Get approval for the confirmed requirements and solution design

The business case for the updated business require3ments and solution design can then be created and processed.

Footnote: The prototype might be the whole system or just part of it. Either way, care is needed to ensure all environmental factors are considered when testing if the proposed solution will work as needed.