I�ve got an idea.� What�s my next step?

�Usually the next step is getting partial answers to some of these questions: Will it really work?� Does anybody want it?� How can I make it or get it made?� How can I sell it?� Can I keep other people from copying it?� Picking just one of these questions and working it to death is usually not a good approach. Get a rough estimate in each area first, and plan to go back and refine your estimates later.� In refining the estimate, questions in the same areas might be: Does it work well enough?� How much will somebody pay for it?� How much will it cost to make?� What kind of markup do I need for the chosen distribution channel?

But how do I get answers when my idea is a total secret?

�No idea is a� total� secret.� A good idea is usually an improvement on some old, well-known thing. Also, a good idea is almost always a solution to a widely known problem.� You can set up questions about what people don�t like about the old thing and what kinds of solutions other people have proposed to solve the known problem without letting the cat out of the bag.� (TBIC has a handout that addresses this in more detail).

I�m sure there�s nothing like it out there.� Now what?

�Too bad.� If there�s nothing� at all� like it out there, you can be sure that there�s no market for it yet either.� Finding out what is "kind of like it" is usually important.� The reference librarian at your local library can help you get started in this area � ask about relevant trade magazines and directories.� Check out one of the databases on the internet where you can do preliminary patent search (the URLs are http://patents.uspto.gov; and http://www.patents.ibm.com/ibm.html) or, if you�ve got a lot of time on your hands, try the local Patent Depository Library (in the Tampa area it is at USF).

I�m sure everybody will want it as soon as they see it.� Now what?

�Too bad.� The only things� everybody� wants are things that are already known and on the market.� What sorts of people might be interested in trying a new and unfamiliar item (and how many of those people there might be) is a question that usually takes a lot of effort to answer.� Some of� the people at TBIC may be able to share their experiences in this area.

Doesn�t somebody market inventions for you?

�There has never been a shortage of invention marketing scams.� Watch out for people who are ready to tell you nice things about your idea until your money runs out.� Beware of deals that seem too good to be true.� Remember that the customer is the one who ultimately pays for calls to 800 numbers.

What can Tampa Bay Inventors� Council do for me?

�TBIC can be part of your network.� It gives you a chance to discuss topics of mutual interest with other inventors (and to compare battle scars).� Joining TBIC gets you a copy of our member�s directory (many member have special skills that you might find of interest) and a subscription to our monthly newsletter.� Please note that a TBIC meeting is a� public forum where confidential material should not be disclosed.