Integrated maturity concept for innovation projects

Systematically evaluate and control technological, production and market maturity (TRL - MRL - CRL)

Introduction

Innovation projects operate in a field of tension between research, application, production and market integration. The mere development of a functioning technology does not guarantee a successful transition into practice. Structured maturity models are needed to systematically evaluate innovations, recognise risks and plan investments in a targeted manner.

Three internationally established models together offer an integrated view of the innovation process:

• Technology Readiness Levels (TRL): Technological Readiness Level
• Manufacturing Readiness Levels (MRL): Production and scalability
• Commercial Readiness Levels (CRL): Economic viability and market embedding

Through the parallel understanding and coordinated development of these three perspectives, an innovation can be realised safely and effectively.

The TRL system - structured assessment of technological maturity

The concept of Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) was originally developed by the US space agency NASA to systematically evaluate and communicate the progress of new technologies. In the meantime, the TRL system has become established in numerous fields of technology and funding logics - for example in the European research and innovation policyindustrial development and in the strategic planning of innovation processes.

Objectives and advantages of the TRL system

The TRL model creates Transparency in the innovation process and enables technological risks to be identified at an early stage. This is particularly important for publicly funded projects and technology-intensive start-ups. The clear categorisation makes it easier to assess whether a project is suitable for basic funding, pilot funding or market launch, for example.

In addition, the TRL system supports the Strategic allocation of resourcesCompanies can make targeted investments in those development phases that benefit most from progress. Investors, in turn, gain valuable information from TRL assessments on the Risk assessment and investment maturity.

Examples from practice

Renewable energies - photovoltaics:

Following initial laboratory experiments (TRL 3), a new type of coating for increasing the efficiency of solar modules is currently in the pilot production phase (TRL 5). Before this technology can be integrated into a solar field (TRL 7), both weather resistance and durability must be proven in realistic tests.

Medical technology - wearables for early detection:

A wearable sensor for recognising neurodegenerative processes is first tested in the laboratory (TRL 4) with model subjects. After integration into a marketable device (TRL 6-7), clinical trials are carried out. The sensor only reaches TRL 9 once it has received official approval and is widely used in the healthcare system.

Agrarechnologie - Compost extract reactor in the TSHN context:

A prototype reactor for the production of biologically active compost extract starts at TRL 3 (concept testing). TRL 5 is being targeted through field trials on selected farms. The goal is a marketable system that enables farmers to directly promote humus formation and microbial diversity - a central concern in the context of regenerative agriculture.

Basic structure and meaning of the TRL levels

The TRL system is divided into Nine successive stageswhich describe the path of a technology from the initial scientific idea to full market maturity. Each stage defines specific requirements for technological validation, system integration or application maturity. This system facilitates communication between developers, funding organisations, investors and end users.

The TRL levels at a glance

Detailed description of the TRL levels with examples

TRL 1 - Basic research

In this phase, fundamental scientific phenomena are observed and analysed theoretically. It consists of No reference to the application yet.

🔬 Example: A research team discovers a new enzyme in the soil microbiome that can break down organic matter particularly efficiently. The discovery is of a purely academic nature.

TRL 2 - Technology concept formulated

There will be a Conceptual context between scientific knowledge and a potential application. There are initial technical ideas, but no tests yet.

🧠 Example: Based on the newly discovered enzyme, the idea is being developed to use it in a biological fertiliser to increase soil fertility.

TRL 3 - Experimental proof of concept

The technical feasibility of the concept is tested in the laboratory. experimentally provenmostly on a small scale and under controlled conditions.

🧪 Example: The enzyme is embedded in a carrier matrix in the laboratory, and initial tests show that it actually accelerates humus formation in artificial soil samples.

TRL 4 - Validation on a laboratory scale

A functional prototype or component is tested under laboratory conditions. A more systematic validation of the technology begins.

⚙️ Example: A prototype of an application system is being developed with which the enzyme can be evenly distributed on substrate surfaces. Various formulations and application methods are being tested.

TRL 5 - Validation in relevant environment

The technology is tested in an environment that corresponds to the conditions under which it will later be used. comes close (e.g. in greenhouses, on test fields, in pilot plants).

🌱 Example: The enzyme preparation is applied to trial fields. Results show positive effects on soil structure and plant growth over several months.

TRL 6 - Demonstration in a realistic environment

A Integrated system or process is tested in the target environment (e.g. field, industrial plant). This is not only about function, but also about Robustness and scalability.

🏞 Example: The fertiliser is being tested in various soil types and climate zones in collaboration with several farms. The applicator is tested under real operating conditions.

TRL 7 - System prototype in the operational environment

The prototype is technically mature and will be used in the End environment used over a longer period of timeideally under typical conditions of use.

🚜 Example: The enzyme fertiliser is integrated into an existing production process on an organic farm. The impact on yield, humus balance and operating costs is analysed over a vegetation period.

TRL 8 - Readiness for commercialisation

The system is Technically fully developedqualified, standardised and ready for market launch. Certifications, test marks and approvals are often also required here.

📦 Example: The product is authorised as a soil additive and is provided with corresponding safety data sheets, operating instructions and packaging systems.

TRL 9 - Market integration

The technology is available on the market and is being used in regular operation. Feedback from practice is used for improvement and further development.

🛒 Example: The enzyme fertiliser is distributed by dealers throughout Europe. Feedback from farmers is used to optimise the formulation and packaging.

Summary, delimitation and expansion

The TRL system allows a Clearly structured assessment of the maturity of technological developmentsregardless of the specialism. The standardised classification enables project sponsors, developers and investors to make well-founded decisions about resources, schedules and funding strategies. Particularly in the field of applied research - e.g. sustainable agricultural technologies - the TRL concept creates the basis for credible communication, connectivity and practice-orientated development processes.

Important is the Delimitation of the TRL system from other valuation models such as the Manufacturing Readiness Levels (MRL) or the Commercial Readiness Levels (CRL). In addition to technological maturity, these also take into account aspects such as production capability or the market environment. In interdisciplinary fields of innovation, such as regenerative agriculture or carbon credit certification, a combination of these models can be useful.

The MRL system - evaluation of production readiness

The Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL)-system was developed to Manufacturability and production readiness of a technology or product. It complements the TRL system, which focuses exclusively on technological maturity, and is particularly important in industrial product development, mechanical engineering, the electronics and automotive industries and the defence sector.

MRL serves this purpose, Identify production risks at an early stagecosts and to assess the feasibility of a scalable production realistically.

MRL level overview

MRL distinguishes Ten steps from the conceptual discussion to fully integrated series production.

The MRL system - stages of production readiness

While the TRL system reflects the state of technological development, the Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL)-system with the Manufacturing and production readiness. MRL assesses how well a technology or product can be transferred to industrial production - a key factor for the Scalability and cost-effectiveness.

MRL 1 - Basic production concepts known

In this initial phase, initial ideas for potential production are developed, but without looking at specific production processes.
🛠 Example: Initial considerations as to whether a new type of component could be produced using additive manufacturing or CNC milling.

MRL 2 - Production concepts recorded

Possible manufacturing processes are roughly outlined. Materials, tolerances and initial quality requirements are considered.
🛠 Example: Creation of a list of suitable materials and machines for the production of a prototype.

MRL 3 - Manufacturability conceptually analysed

Technological processes are analysed theoretically and underpinned by initial calculations or simulations.
🛠 Example: CAD-based analysis of the process stability of a new sensor.

MRL 4 - Manufacturability validated on a laboratory scale

The first components are manufactured under laboratory conditions. Aspects such as tolerance limits or material behaviour are documented.
🛠 Example: Production of housing components for an electronic device in a university technology laboratory.

MRL 5 - Manufacturability validated in relevant environment

Prototypes or components are manufactured under realistic conditions, for example in a pilot plant or test workshop.
🛠 Example: Production of a small series of pump parts in an industrial test facility.

MRL 6 - Production demonstrated in a realistic environment

Production is carried out using machines and processes typical of the industry. Critical weak points in scaling become visible.
🛠 Example: Near-series production of a filter system with documented quality inspection.

MRL 7 - Pilot production with reproducible processes

Production processes are standardised, reproducible and deliver consistent quality.
🛠 Example: Construction of a pre-series of an electrical component with a clearly defined cycle time.

MRL 8 - Production processes qualified

All production processes are formally qualified (e.g. ISO, GMP). Production is carried out using defined quality assurance procedures.
🛠 Example: Product routines for a medical device are validated and approved.

MRL 9 - Ready for series production

The product is manufactured in stable series processes. Process control, personnel and infrastructure are established.
🛠 Example: Series production of a solar module with documented error rate <1 %.

MRL 10 - Production systems optimised

Production is fully integrated, economically optimised and operationally stable. New requirements can be flexibly integrated.
🛠 Example: Fully automated production line with predictive maintenance and continuous improvement.

Benefits of the MRL concept

MRL is essential for Production planning, Supply chain security and Investment decisions. It helps to prevent products from being technically mature (TRL 9) but cannot be produced economically are.

The CRL system - assessment of market readiness

The Commercial Readiness Level (CRL)-system complements TRL and MRL with a third, equally decisive dimension: the Market penetration and economic anchoring of a technology. The CRL concept was originally developed in Australia by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) to evaluate investments in sustainable energy technologies, but is increasingly being used in international innovation evaluation.

CRL analyses whether a product Economically viable, Competitive, Accepted by the market and into a Regulatory and infrastructural environment is embedded.

CRL level overview

CRL distinguishes nine levelsstarting with a purely technical view through to full market penetration.

The CRL system - stages of market maturity

The Commercial Readiness Level (CRL)-system evaluates the progress of a technology on the way to economic establishment on the market. It answers key marketing questions: Is the product accepted? Are there customers willing to pay? Is the business model viable?

CRL 1 - No market launch started

The technology is developed without a market launch being planned. Market issues do not play a role.
💼 Example: Basic research on soil microbes in a university laboratory.

CRL 2 - First market assumptions formulated

Ideas for commercialisation or the business model are emerging, but there is no structured market exploration as yet.
💼 Example: First sketch of a pricing and sales concept for agricultural software.

CRL 3 - Initial market demand recognisable

Initial feedback from stakeholders indicates that there is a real market need.
💼 Example: Interviews with farmers show interest in cost-effective nutrient analysis.

CRL 4 - Target market validated, early customers identified

Target groups, market segments and use cases have been concretised. The first pilot customers are known.
💼 Example: Several companies are prepared to use a compost app on a trial basis during the season.

CRL 5 - Pilot customers available

The first real users are using the product. Feedback is incorporated into improvements.
💼 Example: 10 farms provide structured feedback on usability and benefits.

CRL 6 - Business model tested, customer loyalty begins

Sales are generated, the pricing model proves its worth. Customer loyalty becomes visible.
💼 Example: Several pilot customers voluntarily extend their usage contracts.

CRL 7 - Commercial implementation underway

The product is on the market, there is a functioning sales organisation, marketing activities and strategic partnerships.
💼 Example: A sales partner markets the soil analysis platform in three EU countries.

CRL 8 - Stable market position achieved

The company is able to hold its own in the market and sales are growing steadily.
💼 Example: The solution is part of training programmes and is institutionally recommended.

CRL 9 - Full market penetration

The business model is established, the product is widespread. New markets or follow-on products emerge.
💼 Example: The platform is used as a standard in regenerative arable farming and is integrated into government programmes.

Benefits of the CRL concept

CRL allows the assessment, the extent to which a technology has gained a foothold in a real market. It is particularly relevant for investors, management and strategic partners, as technological or production maturity alone is not enough. does not guarantee economic success.

Interaction of TRL, MRL and CRL

A product can, for example Technologically mature (TRL 9) but have high reject rates in production (MRL 5) or encounter a business model that has not yet been accepted (CRL 4). Only the combination of all three maturity models provides a complete picture of the development status of an innovation:

The integrated maturity roadmap: TRL-MRL-CRL

The following Maturity roadmap offers an integrated visualisation of the three central evaluation dimensions for innovation projects:

• Technological maturity level (TRL)
• Production readiness (MRL)
• Market readiness (CRL)

The X-axis forms abstract, constant time units (e.g. project phases or development stages) in order to structure the typical course of a technological innovation from the idea to the market launch. without specific timesas these depend heavily on the industry and project.

Benefits of integrated visualisation

The integrated presentation leads to a clearer view of innovation projects and provides particular support:

• Concept developerto be able to categorise an idea, a technical project or a further development quickly and clearly for everyone.
• Project managerto coordinate parallel strands of development,
• Sponsorto provide suitable tools for each maturity level in a targeted manner,
• Investorsto assess technical potential as well as realisability and market opportunities,
• Innovation teamsto establish cross-functional cooperation at an early stage (e.g. development, production, sales).

Explanation of the time-orientated maturity roadmap (TRL - MRL - CRL)

• TRL (Technological Readiness Levels) begins in Phase 1 with basic research and extends to Phase 9where a technology is fully functional, tested and ready for use.
• MRL (Manufacturing Readiness Levels) starts slightly offset in Phase 2as production-relevant considerations often only begin after the initial technical validation. The stages extend to Phase 11where series production is fully established and optimised.
• CRL (Commercial Readiness Levels) begins even later, typically from Phase 4when initial considerations on market positioning, target groups and business model maturity arise. Market maturity is reached by Phase 12 with the aim of complete economic integration.

Explanation of the overlaps

The roadmap makes it clear that TRL, MRL and CRL not strictly consecutivebut overlapping in time which is crucial for a successful innovation process:

• TRL and MRL (Phase 2-9)
  Manufacturability (MRL) should already be considered at early TRL stages. In this way, technological developments can be steered in directions that are also Realisable in terms of production technology and economically scalable
  → Example: A sensor prototype that works technically but can only be manufactured by hand will hardly be marketable without early consideration of MRL.
• MRL and CRL (Phase 5-11)
  Production readiness (MRL) and market readiness (CRL) also overlap. Whilst initial customer requirements are evaluated and pilot customers are acquired (CRL 4-6), at the same time Stable production processes (MRL 6-8) in order to ensure delivery capability and product quality.
  → Example: In the pilot series of an agricultural technology product, feedback from pilot customers provides valuable information for optimising the choice of materials and production steps.
• TRL and CRL (Phase 4-9)
  Technological and commercial aspects also overlap: even in the later TRL phase, the decisive factor is whether a solution actually relevant to the market and economically viable
  → Example: Soil analysis software must not only be technologically sophisticated, but also user-friendly and economically attractive - e.g. for companies without extensive IT knowledge.

The integrated maturity roadmap clearly shows that successful innovation processes non-linearbut synchronised along several dimensions process. If you seriously want to bring technological innovation to market maturity, you have to take its Production logic and market potential thinking - this is precisely what makes TRL, MRL and CRL together a powerful strategic navigation system.

Summary

While the TRL system Technological feasibility evaluated, expand MRL and CRL the view around the Manufacturability and the Economic feasibility. Only those who think about these three perspectives together can steer innovation projects safely through the phases of research, development, production and commercialisation. In funding programmes, strategic roadmaps and investment decisions, TRL, MRL and CRL today form a Integrated foundation for holistic innovation management.

MRL and CRL add two essential dimensions to the TRL system: Production capability and economic viability. A technology can be technically mature (TRL 9), but fail in terms of scalability (MRL 6) or market penetration (CRL 4). A complete picture of innovation maturity can only be obtained if all three maturity levels are considered together.

For innovation projects - for example in the field of regenerative agriculture, smart farming or CO₂ certification - this integrative understanding of maturity is crucial for eligibility for funding, willingness to invest and strategic implementation.