Pilot project key to effective tech development and innovation

Budget Benefits – A pilot project can benefit the project budget in several ways. For example, if the pilot produces a deliverable, which can be “reused” when the concept or innovation is approved (and it is produced early), then there will be a budget benefit. In addition, budgetary numbers can be obtained by the project manager for the post-pilot era.

Scope Benefits – Any scope pre-gathering exercise is beneficial. For example, as a pilot is executed, participants have the opportunity to contribute requirements as the innovation or concept is deployed. Theoretically, this will assist with future deployment of the innovation or concept and control “runaway” requests during this time.

Risk Benefits – Pilot projects provide many benefits in the area of risk. Pilot execution allows risks to be identified, documented, authenticated, mitigated, tested, or possibly solved in a less intense environment.

Resource Benefits – Aside from the issue of obtaining highly specialized expertise, conversely, pilot projects are also able to provide benefits with respect to resources. Simply, team members can be tested with respect to their ability to work with the new concept or innovation.

In addition, the pilot will allow much needed concept or innovation knowledge. This is beneficial when the project is executed on a much larger scale.