Difference between Pilot Testing and Alpha Testing

Pilot Testing: Pilot testing is the type of software testing where a group of users uses the software in totality before the final launch or deployment of the software. This testing verifies a component of the system or the entire system under a real time operating condition. The purpose of the pilot Testing is to evaluate the feasibility, time, cost, risk and performance of a research project. Alpha Testing: Alpha Testing is a type of software testing performed to identify bugs before releasing the product to real users or to the public. Alpha Testing is one of the User Acceptance Testing. This is referred to as an alpha testing only because it is done early on, near the end of the development of the software. Alpha testing is commonly performed by homestead software engineers or quality assurance staffs. It is the last testing stage before the software is released into the real world. Here are few differences between Pilot Testing and Alpha Testing:

Pilot Testing	Alpha Testing
It is performed to verify the entire system and its components.	It is performed to minimize the failure risks.
It is performed in the user (real) environment.	It is performed at developer’s site.
It is performed by selected users.	It is performed by testers who are usually internal employees of the organization.
Feedback comes from some selected users in this testing.	Feedback comes from employees in this testing.
It is done before beta testing.	It is done before pilot testing and beta testing.
Pilot testing doesn't require long execution cycle.	Alpha testing may require long execution cycle.
Pilot doesn’t require a lab but environment is required.	Alpha testing requires a testing environment or a lab.
It is performed before the launch of product in the market.	It ensures the quality of the product before forwarding to beta testing.