Glossary · T
Technology Readiness Level 9 (TRL 9)
Technology Readiness Level 9
A system proven in its operational environment
What it means
Technology Readiness Level 9 is the highest level on the nine-level TRL scale. It describes an actual system proven through successful operation in its intended environment. TRL 8 describes a complete, qualified system. The distinction concerns evidence of readiness, not a required number of customers.
What it means for a business
A buyer can ask what evidence supports a technology’s claimed readiness and whether that evidence matches the intended use. A high TRL does not establish suitability for every new setting or remove the need for integration work, acceptance testing and operational support.
In practice
How we deliver Q-Dev projects