Page 97 - 597 Business Ideas You can Start from Home - doing what you LOVE! (Beginner Internet Marketing Series)

88 Your Idea, I nc.

accurately reflect the final product, so be sure you've used final
ingredients or materials.

If you can't make it yourself, your materials supplier or manufac­

turer may be able to make it for you. If not, go back to www.thomasnet.
com and use the keyword "prototype makers." You'll see a list of com­

panies that specialize in making prototypes and who will do small
runs. The companies also list the materials that they work with.

You could also ask your patent attorney for recommendations­
since most products that need a prototype need a patent, she may
have some ideas. Most prototype companies will charge per piece
that they produce.

Te sting Your Prototype

At this point, you've got a real, working sample of your idea. Take a
moment to reflect on how far you've come from that idea bouncing
around in your head. You still have a long way to go in your journey,
but you've reached an important milestone.

As you test the prototype, take a "devil's advocate" stance by:

• Treating it in a "not so gentle" way to see if it will hold up.
• Showing it to friends and family to get opinions.
• Thinking about possible problems and how to prevent them by

making it the absolute best it can be now. (Think about L. L.
Bean and his original shoes.) It's easier to make changes in the
beginning. Don't be in a rush at this stage.
• Taking it into a small, local store that could conceivably carry
your product and getting the owner's opinion.

Dealing with Difficulties

Finding a manufacturer that meets your needs in all respects is not
easy. Even after you find your manufacturing partner, you may still
encounter frustration. Know this going in, and you will be mentally
prepared to solve the problem.