Are you sure you can create an impactful product that will be incredibly popular? Don't wait any longer! Use the following steps to create your own invented product and then market it.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Imagining Products
Step 1. Generate creative ideas
The first step to creating a unique and useful product is to come up with an idea. Consider your area of expertise – what are you most interested in and know best about? To create something from start to finish, you have to focus on your area of expertise. Otherwise, you'll just have a great idea but don't know how to make it happen.
- Try making a list of things you are interested in. You can list hobbies, occupations, or products that you use frequently.
- For each activity or item that interests you, make a list of possible improvements that could be made in the form of an invention. This could include product variations, activities or helpful additions.
- Make a long list. Too many ideas are better than too few, so keep writing ideas down until you can't think of anything else to add.
- Keep a journal with you at all times so you can always add new ideas to your list of inventions. Keeping all your ideas in one journal will help you to be more mentally organized and allow you to review them at a later date.
- Don't rush into the process of coming up with ideas. Inspiration may not come quickly, and you may have to spend weeks or months jotting down ideas before you get enlightened.
Step 2. Decide on an idea
After you've spent some time considering all the options, choose the best invention idea. Now you will devote more time to thinking about the details of the project. Draw some sketches of the invention you envision, then think of some important questions.
- What can you add to improve this product? What is so special about your invention that people will feel compelled to make it a part of their lives? What makes your invention great?
- Think about the changes that might have to be made. What parts of your findings are redundant or unnecessary? Is there a way to make it more efficient or cheaper to manufacture?
- Think about every aspect including all the parts needed and important details about how it works or functions. Record these answers and ideas in a journal, so you can review them again.
Step 3. Do a search on your invention
When you're confident and have made significant adjustments, do some research to make sure that your idea is truly unique. If there are other products like yours that have been patented, you will not be able to mass-produce the invention or get your own patent.
- Do an internet search to find a product that fits the description of your invention. If you have created a name for the invention, also look to make sure it has not been used.
- Visit a store that sells products that are similar to the product you are going to make. Browse the sales shelves for products that are similar, and if necessary ask the salesperson if they sell products that function similarly.
- Visit the library or contact the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DJKI) to search all patents and categories for inventions like yours. You can also broaden your search to the international patent and trademark library to see if your invention bears any resemblance to foreign patented products.
- Enlist the help of a patent search professional to verify that there really is no product similar to your invention on the market.
- Patents are granted on a “first to file” basis, not on a “first to invent” basis. That is, apply for a patent for your invention as quickly as possible so that no one else can copy you. Evidence (usually in the form of a journal) that you were the first finding the product won't help if someone else has already applied for it.
Part 2 of 3: Patenting Inventions
Step 1. Take a thorough note of your invention
Even if you are not the main inventor who wants to get a patent, you should still keep a record of the invention including its complete specifications and uses.
- Record your product creation process. Write down how you came up with the idea, what inspired you, how long the process took, and why you wanted to create it.
- List all the things you will need to create it, all the parts and materials that may be needed for your invention.
- Record search results that indicate that you have not found any other product on the market that is similar in design to your invention and that has been patented. You must prove that your invention is unique in order to qualify for a patent.
- Consider the commercial value of your invention. There is a fee that must be paid to obtain a patent, even if you do not use the services of an IPR consultant. Before paying the fee, make sure you have recorded the commercial value and potential revenue based on the sale of the invention. This way, you'll know that the potential revenue from selling the product outweighs the cost of obtaining the patent.
- Make an informal image of your invention. You don't have to make a beautiful drawing, but you are required to provide an accurate drawing of the invention to apply for a patent. If you're not good at drawing, consider asking a friend or family member who is good at drawing to do it.
Step 2. Consider using the services of an IPR consultant
Although IPR consultants are quite expensive, their help is invaluable. Their main job is to help you get patents and deal with patent infringement.
- Intellectual Property Rights Consultants can advise based on recent changes in patent law to ensure you are always up-to-date.
- If someone infringes on your patent (after you have obtained it), an IPR consultant can help you take legal steps to deal with the problem or file a claim if necessary.
- If your invention is classified under the “technology” category, an IP legal counsel can help ensure that similar technological advances are not being developed by another company or business. Technology is one of the fastest-growing fields, and one of the most difficult areas to grant patents.
Step 3. Apply for a patent
Prepare patent specifications and application forms as well as the fees to be paid to file the application and obtain the filing date. The patent specification includes the name of the invention, background, description, drawing, abstract, and claim. After that, you can complete the formality requirements in the form of the applicant's personal documents and a statement letter.
- After the requirements are declared complete, the next stage is the announcement period which starts 18 months after the date of acceptance and lasts for 6 months. The announcement period aims to spread news about your invention so that the public can object if the invention does not meet the requirements.
- The public application fee is IDR 750,000, - with an additional fee for each specification page or claim that exceeds the minimum amount.
Step 4. Apply for a substantive examination
After the announcement period ends, or no later than 36 months from the date of receipt, you can apply for a substantive examination. It is at this stage that the patent examiner will determine whether your invention meets the substantive requirements so that it is worthy of a patent. Applications can be submitted through the website or directly to the DJKI office, or through a registered IPR consultant attorney. You simply complete the form and pay the fee to DJHKI.
Part 3 of 3: Making Inventions
Step 1. Make a prototype
While the patent application is still in process, this is a good time to work on your model of the invention. Don't worry about whether you have to use expensive materials or go through an expensive process, just do your own version of the invention.
- You are not required to make prototypes from the same materials as mass production later, unless those materials are critical to the manufacture of the product.
- If you can't work on a prototype yourself, you can pay a company to build one for you. However, this method can be quite expensive, so make sure you always try it yourself first.
Step 2. Make a presentation
With patents and prototypes in hand, you're on your way to success. The next step is to create a presentation that thoroughly discusses your invention. You can use a presentation to show a producer or potential buyer, although the presentation for the two parties is slightly different.
- Make sure that your presentation is very professional, no matter how you make it. You can create Power Point presentations, videos, or show them live.
- Use lots of information, diagrams, and pictures that will come in handy. Make sure you cover all product specifications, functions, and long-term results or benefits.
- While this is optional, you can use the services of a graphic designer to put together a spectacular presentation for your invention. An attractive presentation will encourage the interest of producers and buyers.
- Make sure you speak well when presenting. Good diagrams and pictures are not enough, you also have to be good at public speaking. Don't memorize, but know (with the help of notes if necessary) everything you want to say and the answers to common questions that may be asked.
Step 3. Present your invention to the manufacturer
Look for local manufacturers who create products that are similar to yours and ask them to produce your invention. You may have to send a cover letter explaining who you are and what your needs are.
- After you receive a reply letter (regular mail or electronic mail), prepare for a presentation. It is likely that you will have to present your invention to them and explain what you want from their company.
- Make sure you leave a copy of the presentation and information so they can review it after you leave.
- Emphasize why and how your invention not only helps people, but also generates huge money for manufacturers. They are business people just like you, and want to know what they can earn by partnering with you.
Step 4. Produce your findings
Once you find a manufacturer willing to produce your invention, start mass-producing it. While it may be best to start small (the manufacturer will discuss this with you), you can produce hundreds or thousands.
Step 5. Advertise your invention
You've done it all; your patents, prototypes, manufacturers, and finally your inventions have been mass-produced. Look for advertising ways to get maximum sales.
- Arrange meetings with local business owners and store managers to discuss selling your product with them. You can show a presentation to explain why selling your product is a great option for their business in addition to helping local entrepreneurs.
- Create an advertisement for your invention. Use the services of a local graphic designer to create images and videos that entice people to buy your products.
- Find ways to show ads in your area. Many local newspapers, TV and radio stations can advertise your product for a small fee.
- Spread the word about your product among friends and family. Getting support from those closest to you will help spread the word about your invention to new communities and populations.
- Take part in information sessions, entrepreneurship conferences and local business fairs. Check how much it costs to rent a booth to advertise your products at shows near your location.
