Make sure you spend a great deal of time not only investigating if your invention already exists but if there is also market potential. One of the simplest ways to do this is to conduct a focus group with your friends and family. Have them all over for a dinner or party and then informally ask them if your idea would be something they would buy. Their responses not only tell you if there is market potential but also may provide you with some clues on how to refine your concept.

Tip Two – Protection
We always suggest talking to a patent attorney about your invention. Many patent attorneys are willing to talk with you free of charge to recommend if you should pursue a patent. When sharing your idea with companies, always try to get them to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement. A NDA is a contract that claims the parties involved, that are reviewing your idea, will not disclose, compete or share you idea. The following NDA was provided by Gene Scott of Patent Law & Venture Group for inventors to use when shopping around: Non-Disclosure Agreement

Tip Three – Prototypes
Developing a prototype doesn’t have to cost you thousands of dollars. For first-time inventors, the best way to see if your invention will work the way you want it to would be to make it yourself. Your initial prototype doesn’t need to be made of high quality materials or look like a well polished product. The concept is to see if what you envisioned has potential and prove it will work. If everything looks good then consider investing in either a digital or physical prototype.

Tip Four – Presentation
Image is everything and when it comes time to present your idea, it can make all the difference. A well-designed graphic or polished design can make the sale and acceptance of your idea that much easier. This is where your research and the help of a professional designer can put you above the rest. High quality and informative graphics provide credibility while educating and exciting your audience. The faster they understand and the more they are wowed, the better chances for your invention.

Tip Five – Marketing
One of the best ways to get your invention moving is to attend a tradeshow. There are tradeshows for just about everything and attending one can easily put you in front of a variety of companies, buyers and distributors. These websites can help you locate a tradeshow that is right for you: Trade Show Network or Business Trade Shows

While we could go on and on about the do’s and the don’ts for inventors, keep in mind that you are the master of your destiny and you can do well. Provide yourself with the information, tools and motivation to make your invention a success. Stay persistent, get creative and don’t take no for an answer.

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