Apply the hard gates first, then use the score as a preparation guide.
| Points / 24 | Preparation band | Recommended next step |
|---|---|---|
| 0–7 | Foundations missing | Define task, ownership and data inventory before asking for training quotes |
| 8–15 | Preparation required | Fix the weakest evidence areas; commission a bounded readiness review if useful |
| 16–20 | Near a scoped pilot | Close gate conditions and finalise baseline, acceptance and cost assumptions |
| 21–24 | Ready to specify a controlled pilot | Seek comparable scoped proposals; readiness is not proof of an adaptation win |
Worked example — hypothetical: a team scores 20/24 but answers A on rights. Its result is “Blocked for commissioning”, not “near ready”. A second team scores 18/24 with all four gates at C; it can prepare a narrow pilot while closing non-gate gaps before their relevant stage.
Do not convert 18/24 into a “75% chance of success”. No such predictive validation exists for this quiz. Re-score only when evidence changes, retaining the earlier version so improvement is inspectable.