Expert: Mark Rappaport - 6/5/2009

Question
I have an idea for a small change in an existing and very popular product. I was wondering if there was a way to somehow make it happen. I have been looking for a product like this and haven't been able to find one. But to me, the idea seems like common sense. I cannot believe no one makes this.

Answer
Sarah,

    You have an idea that you think is novel.  You want to know if there is something you can do to pursue it for some kind of financial payoff.  My first answer is no.  The reason is that you have not given me enough info to get you to the next step.  There are a bunch of qualifying questions I usually ask.  In this case, there is no need to qualify you or the idea because I don't have enough info.  It would be like a doctor diagnosing a patient with finger pain on the internet. As it turns out, his finger is still in the car door.
    Coming up with interesting ideas is not so tough if you tend to think like an inventor.  Making a sample (proof of concept) or working prototype is a bit harder but not insurmountable. Figuring out what to do next is a lot more challenging.  Making money at it is is incredibly difficult if not close to impossible. Losing money is relatively easy.  
    My advise to you is:  Try to make one without spending more than $20.  Then test it out and see if what is in your head is what you are experiencing with the product.  Then talk to your friends and see what they think.  Make sure you don't listen to them.  Watch them instead.  See what they do with it and not what they say.  Their eyes will give you a better idea of potential than their mouth.  After you determine that you in fact have a great item, write me back to discuss the next steps.  DO NOT SPEND ANY MORE MONEY PURSUING THIS.
    Inventing is like an itch.  Just scratch it and it should go away.  Scratch too hard and you'll be at the dermatologist spending lots of money.  If you think I am being discouraging, I'm not.  I'm being real.  Make one for yourself ("the scratch").  If you still want to go further I will be very happy to talk with you and point you in the right direction.  Good luck

Mark

mark@markysparkytoys.com