Definition - What does Pilot Test mean?
In research, a pilot test is a small preliminary study used to test a proposed research study before a full scale performance. This smaller study usually follows the exact same processes and procedures as its full-scale counterpart. The primary purpose of a pilot study is to evaluate the feasibility of the proposed major study. The pilot test may also be used to estimate costs and necessary sample size of the greater study. A pilot test is sometimes called a pilot experiment, pilot project, pilot study, feasibility study, or pilot run.
SureHire explains Pilot Test
Before investing in a full-scale research study, it is often advisable to perform a pilot test. Conducting a smaller scale study permits researchers to identify problems with the study plan before making a major investment of time and resources. Results of the pilot study may also be used to estimate the costs and sample size of the proposed full-size study. The pilot test should be run once the proposed research project has been fully designed, but before investing in a final launch of the project. These smaller test runs are considered an essential component of a good study design.
