pilot scheme

pilot scheme

A new pilot scheme is being tested in a small town.

Definition

Noun: - A small-scale experimental project: A "pilot scheme" is a limited, preliminary plan or project that is implemented to test the feasibility, time, cost, and adverse effects of a larger-scale initiative before it is fully launched.

Usage Examples
  • (A small trial of the healthcare system to assess its effectiveness.)
  • (An experimental project to evaluate a shorter work schedule.)
  • (A trial of online education to determine its viability.)
Advanced Usage
  • "to implement a pilot scheme": to put a small-scale test plan into action.
    • The city council decided to implement a pilot scheme for electric bus routes. (They started a trial of electric buses.)
  • "to evaluate a pilot scheme": to assess the results of a trial project.
    • Researchers will evaluate the pilot scheme before recommending nationwide adoption. (They will analyze the test results.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Pilot (adj.): serving as a test or trial for a larger project.
    • The pilot project received funding for a year. (The trial project was funded.)
  • Pilot (n.): a person who operates an aircraft; also, a test episode of a TV series.
    • The TV pilot was well received by audiences. (The test episode was popular.)
  • Scheme (n.): a systematic plan or arrangement.
    • The government introduced a new pension scheme. (A plan for retirement benefits.)
Synonyms
  • Trial run: a test of something to see if it works.
    • We did a trial run of the software before the official release. (We tested it.)
  • Test project: an experimental initiative.
    • The test project for the new recycling program was successful. (The trial was effective.)
  • Pilot project: another term for a pilot scheme.
    • The pilot project for the urban garden was praised by residents. (The trial project was well received.)
Related Idioms
  • "to run it up the flagpole": to test an idea or plan to see if it is accepted.
    • Let's run this pilot scheme up the flagpole and see if the board approves. (Let's test this small-scale plan.)
Phrasal Verbs
  • Phase in: to introduce something gradually, often after a pilot scheme.
    • The new policy will be phased in after the pilot scheme ends. (It will be introduced step by step.)
  • Roll out: to launch a full-scale version after a pilot scheme.
    • Following the successful pilot scheme, the program will be rolled out nationwide. (It will be implemented everywhere.)