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The Piloting of new ideas and processes is an ideal way to assess the viability of a concept before making the time, labor and financial commitment required for a full-scale implementation. Here are some guidelines on getting started.
The Piloting of new ideas and processes is an ideal way to assess the viability of a concept before making the time, labor and financial commitment required for a full scale implementation. In an effort to provide additional structure, clarity and support to the Piloting Process, the following will serve as a “road map” of necessary steps and things to consider when developing a successful Pilot Program.
Guidelines:
• Goal/Objective - Outline specifically what the pilot program is expected to achieve. What are you trying to accomplish?
• Concept - Overview of the program itself including the targeted audience/participants and market(s) as well as anticipated development, training and implementation requirements.
• Benefit - How will Scouting benefit from the pilot program in terms of measurable results? For example, Increases in Membership, Retention, Return on Investment and Brand Awareness.
• Budget - What are the anticipated expenses associated with executing the pilot program? What do you forecast to be the start up and development costs vs. ongoing expenses?
• Timing - What is the expected duration of the pilot and deadlines for interim deliverables? Is the pilot/program restricted to a particular time of year?
• Measurement - What are the metrics for evaluating the performance of the pilot? Identify a baseline level of performance today and compare the pilot program against that standard.
• Definition of Success - How will we know if we have achieved the goals of the pilot?
• Broader Application - Does the pilot have the potential for application outside of your council? If so, what adjustments (if any) would need to be considered?

Additionally, we should leverage the Innovation Engine at ideas.scouting.org as a forum for sharing new ideas and best practices. To include your Pilot in the listing of activities focused on moving Scouting forward, please email the details of your Pilot to Merril Davis of the Innovation Team at Merril.Davis@Scouting.org.
If you require any additional support, please feel free to contact Rani Monson (Rani.Monson@Scouting.org) of the Innovation Team or Pat Wellen (Pat.Wellen@Scouting.org) of the Research & Evaluation Team.