Price a pilot project without creating an unlimited commitment
A pilot price should reflect a bounded learning and delivery commitment. Cheap entry becomes expensive when the customer expects a complete production service under a vague trial agreement.
Define what the pilot buys
Specify the test scope, participants, duration, support and final output. State what happens after the pilot and how production work would be scoped. Track internal effort separately from any promotional pricing so the team knows the normal delivery economics.
A worked example
An automation pilot covers one document type and a limited historical sample. The customer receives findings and a recommended rollout scope, rather than assuming the fee includes every future workflow.
Illustrative scenario; this is not a claim about an actual Conxn client or guaranteed results.
Your action checklist
- Set a fixed pilot boundary
- Explain continuation options
- Measure full delivery effort internally
Must a pilot be profitable on its own?
That depends on the purpose and budget. If it is intentionally subsidised, record the investment and the evidence required to justify further work.
AI-assisted editorial guide for practical business planning. Adapt the framework to your context and seek qualified advice for material financial, legal, employment or contractual decisions.