Why Pilot Programs Work

If you’ve been thinking about launching a new service line, developing a new product, or creating a new partnership, but you’re just not sure if it’s going to work, you might want to consider implementing a pilot program.

A Pilot Program is a small-scale test of a new product, service or program. Instead of going all-in on something new, you can use a pilot program to test your idea.

If you’re looking to launch a new partnership or affiliate program, for example, you could start with a pilot program of a limited number of affiliates. Draft a rough outline of what you want to include in your program. What’s expected of the partner? What do they get in return? Who is the target? How will the program work?

Decide how many affiliates you want to include in your pilot and how long the pilot program will last. Do you want to launch with 10 affiliates for 3 months and then re-visit the terms?

Be clear with affiliates who sign on that this is a pilot and that there will likely be changes to the program as you learn what works and what doesn’t. Be clear with the timeline and details of the program. Then, communicate regularly on changes that are coming.

Give partners in your pilot program perks that others won’t get once you go “live”. Ask them to be a part of the development. Let them help shape the program. Get feedback. And, give feedback, as well.

Once you’ve completed the pilot program, communicate the changes that you’re making and what the long-term program is going to look like. If you don’t feel like you’ve had enough time to finalize the details, extend the program.

By creating a pilot program with a small number of affiliates, you don’t get yourself locked into a program that you realize is bad for your business. Be open with participants that you’re not sure it’s going to work and that there could be drastic changes or the program might be scratched altogether. It’s a test, and tests sometimes fail. But, failing at a small scale is a lot easier to bounce back from.

You can use pilot programs for new products, new service lines, or anything new you want to try in your business. For new products, ask for pre-orders. Once you’ve hit a certain number of pre-orders, you’ll know the product has a market. And, if you don’t hit that goal, refund your customers and tell them you’re going back to the drawing board.

If you’re launching a new service, try it out on a few customers for free or at a discounted rate to see what works and what doesn’t. Then, refine the service before offering it to all customers.

Pilot programs can be a great way to test the waters before diving into the deep end.