Hesitant to go all-in on a Full Implementation but unclear whether a POC or Pilot is the best approach to test a new system’s potential? Asking for a POC or Pilot but being told you're really requesting a Full implementation? If so, this article is for you.
In this article, you’ll learn how Proof of Concept (POC), Pilot, and Full implementation manage scope, risk, and investment differently, like building a rocket on a paper plane budget. By the end, you’ll be able to decide which phase best navigates your project to success.
The phases: Proof of Concept (POC), Pilot, and Full implementation
- Proof of Concept (POC): A POC is a small-scale, experimental test to validate a concept’s feasibility, typically in a controlled setting like a lab, focusing on technical viability. With a narrow scope, short timeline (weeks), and low cost, a POC answers “Can this work?” For example, testing a new software algorithm might prove it’s feasible, but certainly won’t be production-ready. Success greenlights a Pilot; failure prompts a pivot, saving resources early. However, a POC’s limited scope doesn’t test real-world challenges, requiring further validation.
- Pilot: A Pilot is a limited, real-world test of a fully implemented solution with a small user group or site, evaluating functionality, user feedback, and scalability. Pilots broaden scope beyond POCs, involving real users over months with moderate costs. They uncover practical issues, like usability flaws, missed by POCs. For instance, a Pilot might reveal a system needs interface tweaks. Success promotes scaling to a Full implementation; failure allows refinements without widespread risk, though delays may test stakeholder patience.
- Full implementation: Full implementation is the enterprise-wide rollout of a proven solution, fully integrating it into operations across all intended users or sites. With the widest scope, longest timeline (months to years), and highest cost, Full implementation commits major resources to achieve project goals. For example, deploying software company-wide requires training and infrastructure. Success delivers full benefits, like enhanced efficiency, but failure risks significant losses. POC and Pilot insights reduce risks, though it is important to note scaling can expose new challenges.
Mastering POC, Pilot, and Full implementation ensures you test, refine, and scale solutions strategically, turning bold ideas into reality. Each phase builds toward success, avoiding “But you never asked for that!” moments and weeks to months of backtracking.
Want help deciding which project phase you should be selecting? Let’s talk