Complete Guide to TRLs (Technology Readiness Levels)

One of the main challenges in technological development is determining when an innovation is ready for real-world implementation. Many companies and researchers struggle to assess whether a technology is just a promising idea or if it is already prepared for the market.

This is where Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) come into play. Without a clear evaluation system, companies may invest resources in technologies that are not yet ready or, conversely, discard promising advancements due to a lack of validation. Additionally, the proper classification of a TRL influences investment decisions, access to funding, and commercialization strategies.

This system, initially developed by NASA, has become a standard in various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. Over time, the usefulness of TRLs has been recognized beyond the aerospace sector.

Organizations such as the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), the European Commission, and agencies like ESA (European Space Agency) and DARPA have started adopting and adapting the scale to evaluate technologies across different sectors.

In this guide, we will explain what TRLs are, how they are measured, and why they are important for your business.

What is TRL and Why is it Important?

The Technology Readiness Level (TRL) is a 9-level scale that measures the development stage of a technology, from initial research to commercialization. This system helps companies, researchers, and investors understand where a technology stands and what steps are needed to bring it to market.

Using TRLs allows:

• Risk reduction in technology development.

• Optimization of investment in research and development (R&D).

• Better decision-making regarding funding and implementation.

• Alignment of expectations among researchers, developers, and investors.

  
  

The 9 TRL Levels and Their Meaning

TRL Level	Name	Description
TRL 1	Basic principles observed and reported	Fundamental scientific principles are identified; no tests have been conducted yet.
TRL 2	Concept formulation	The technological concept and its theoretical feasibility are defined, but no experimental tests have been carried out.
TRL 3	Experimental proof of concept	Laboratory experiments are conducted to validate the concept under controlled conditions.
TRL 4	Component validation in laboratory	Initial prototypes are developed and tested in a laboratory environment.
TRL 5	Validation in a relevant environment	The prototype is tested in an environment that simulates real-world conditions.
TRL 6	Prototype demonstration in a relevant environment	A more advanced prototype is built and tested under operational conditions close to reality.
TRL 7	Demonstration in a real environment	The system is tested under real operating conditions.
TRL 8	Fully operational and certified system	Testing is completed, and certification for commercial use is obtained.
TRL 9	System tested and operational under real conditions	The technology is validated, certified, and widely used commercially.

Application of TRLs in Different Industries

• Aerospace and Defense: Space and defense agencies use TRLs to assess the development of new technologies, ensuring they are safe and functional before implementation.

• Healthcare and Biotechnology: Pharmaceutical companies apply TRLs to evaluate the progress of new drugs and medical devices before regulatory approval.

• Automotive Industry: Vehicle manufacturers use TRLs to develop new technologies, such as electric engines and autonomous driving systems.

• Energy and Environment: In the energy sector, TRLs help assess the feasibility of new renewable energy sources before large-scale deployment.

  
  

Using the TRL scale is essential for the success of any technological development. Knowing the stage of an innovation allows companies and entrepreneurs to make better strategic decisions and reduce risks in the commercialization of new technologies.

If your company is developing a new technology and wants to evaluate its maturity level, consider applying the TRL methodology to better structure your innovation process.