The lightbulb above your head is illuminating so bright that it’s threatening to blind everyone around you. But what should you do with your great invention ideas? Before you start blabbing about your invention to the wrong person or run to the first company that offers to buy it, you need to do one thing: Protect it!

•Step 1: Document It. Simply having an “idea” is worthless, you need to have proof of when you came up with your invention ideas.

When you come up with an innovative idea, create a record of Invention before going any further. Write down everything concerning your idea. Keep an “Inventor’s Notebook” or journal that records the conception and development of your idea. Use bound notebooks, make frequent entries and date each one. This log may help you in litigation if your invention’s origins ever come into question. Don’t talk with any company or agency about your invention unless they sign a confidentiality agreement. (NDA)

• Step 2: Research It. You will need to research your idea from a legal and business standpoint.

This may be obvious to many people, however, you would be surprised at how many inventors get excited about an amazing idea and assume that because they thought of it, the idea does not exist anywhere else. Many times a simple Google search or a trip to your local Wal-mart may prove otherwise. Don’t be discouraged if you do find your idea already on the market, you may have a modification or an approach that is not covered by patents held by the manufacturer. If your search does reveal that the invention is out there, at least you did not lose any money on the idea. Also remember if you had one great idea that is in stores, you might have another tomorrow!

• Step 3: Make a Prototype. 

It’s imperative to work with experienced illustrators for patent drawings, the United States Patent Office (USPTO) requirements are very specific. At Source Direct – Inventing Experts our experienced patent team can create professional patent illustrations of your invention, increasing the chances of your patent application being approved. When it comes to developing a prototype, you may be able to do it yourself if it’s something basic. But if you need help with the execution, you have options. We offer all your needs for creating a prototype.

• Step 4: File a Patent.

Invention experts agree: don’t file your own patent! To properly secure a patent claim, the wording needs to be precise and accurate. It needs to use the nomenclature of a patent authority. Should you attempt to file your own patent, do not expect it to be as specific and powerful as one that is prepared by an experienced patent agent or attorney. Without expert guidance, you may not be granted a patent.

• Step 5: Market Your Invention.

When it comes to bringing a new product to market it’s your responsibility to get your product out there and seen. You have a great invention that solves a huge problem for people but no one will buy it if they do not know it exists! Marketing is key in product success it can make or break you! When marketing your product it’s important that your product is seen by your target demographic. Knowing how to reach them and what content potential customers are looking to is imperative.