This paper discusses the importance of pilot studies in the development and implementation of a research project, focusing on the use of a pilot study to revise conceptual and methodological issues in dissertation research on higher education leadership. It examines the hermeneutic circle, as described by M. Heidegger, that stresses the importance of involvement and participation in practical activity as necessary to the development of understanding. The paper then describes the conceptual framework, research focus and goals, and methodology of a pilot study on inclusive higher education leadership models. Finally, it discusses how the pilot study helped to identify methodological changes in the dissertation research project, including the unit of analysis, data collection, the interview process, analysis, and interpretations. The paper illustrates the importance of grounding the research process in practical activity, highlights how reflection can help improve research practice, suggests the value of day-to-day experiences in shaping research, and emphasizes the importance of re-iterative studies and emergent research. (Contains 57 references.) (MDM)