Test for failure to drive success

STeP evaluates technology performance, both overall and at the component level, in real world settings. They identify failure and capture user experiences. In-field prototype testing and troubleshooting combined with user insights offer rapid cycles learning and design optimization.

Field-testing is an essential piece of product development that supports health and safety, informs design and drives adoption.

STeP follows a disciplined and rigorous field testing process:

Site Selection

  • Determine requirements
  • Work with local partners & stakeholders to identify suitable sites
  • Gain permissions from management, owners, and tenants
  • Sign Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs)

Prepare Site

  • Identify contractors & suppliers to support retrofitting and installation
  • Conduct site assessment
  • Sign necessary contracts
  • Iterate on design plans
  • Conduct town hall meetings and other educational programs with stakeholders
  • Secure informed consent from management and owners/tenants
  • Conduct baseline, pre-testing phase technology-user studies
  • Prepare sites (e.g., retrofits, exterior pads, piping, shut – off mechanisms)

Install System

  • Deliver unit to site, possibly from storage
  • Engage plumber and other contractors at site
  • If necessary, secure fork-lift, crane, or other lifting equipment
  • Assemble parts
  • Make any necessary connections to electrical and water
  • Conduct preliminary tests to ensure safe operation
  • Turn on any necessary back-up systems

Test & Analyze

  • Turn on unit and monitor closely for the first hours/days
  • Troubleshoot and optimize as needed
  • Conduct daily, weekly, and monthly tests
  • Follow STeP Global Protocols
  • Analyze results
  • Conduct mid-testing phase technology-user studies
  • Manage stakeholder and vendor relationships

Decommission

  • Drain/empty unit
  • Revert site to prior state, diverting sewage to prior disposal system
  • Safely remove systems
  • Re-package unit and ship to investigator
  • Conduct post-testing phase technology-user studies
  • Host closing meeting with management

Access STeP’s standardized test measurements to assess the safety and performance of the sanitation technologies.

Additional resources are available in STeP’s Resource Center.

Contact STeP to discover the partnerships, research, and resources available for your project.

Sanitation Technology Platform

RTI International
3040 East Cornwallis Road
Research Triangle Park
North Carolina, USA 27709-21994

[email protected]

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