Basic principles observed and reported. Basic scientific research that can be turned into an application or a concept under a research and development program is considered.

Technology concept or application formulated. An idea is proposed for the practical application of current research, but there are no experimental proofs or studies to support the idea.

Concept or application proven through analysis and experimentation. Active research and development begins, including analytical laboratory-based studies to validate the initial idea, providing an initial “proof of concept.”

Basic prototype validated in laboratory environment. Basic examples of the proposed technology are built and put together for testing to offer an initial vote of confidence for continued development.

Basic prototype validated in relevant environment. More realistic versions of the proposed technology are tested in real-world or near real-world conditions, which includes initial integration at some level with other operational systems.

System prototype demonstrated in a relevant environment. The final prototype of the technology that is as close to the operational version as possible at this stage is tested in real-life conditions.

Actual system completed and test by consumers. The technology is thoroughly tested and no further major development of the technology is required. Its operation as intended is demonstrated without significant design problems.

Product is launched to a mass release. The final version of the product is thoroughly demonstrated through normal user, with only minor problems needing to be fixed. Any further improvements to the product at this point, whether planned or not, will be treated as a TRL 1