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.