Have you thought of a new idea?
If you've thought of something great, then well done, but it's only the easiest part that's over. Knowing how to turn your idea from a thought into a reality requires some knowledge of what you're doing and of how to protect your property.
Dragon's Den and other television prgrammes have inspired hundreds of people to get their thinking caps on and "invent" a product. But as we've all seen, one person's good idea is anothers idea of a disaster.
It's a risky business and to adopt it as a full time career you'd have to be absolutely certain your idea would succeed. But for all of you who just think you're on to a winner, it's either time to move ahead, or ditch the dream.
The downside to programmes such as Dragon's Den mean the public assume if you're an inventor you're probably a bit mad and eccentric. If you're applying for help with inventing or you're looking to set up a business meeting, try calling yourself a "designer". If you say you're an inventor you might give off the wrong impression.
If you've thought of a really great idea, the worst thing you could do is blab to somebody in the pub who then steals it. If you're in the very early stages and have no contracts drawn up and you're deadly serious about pursuing something, keep quiet.
It's vital to be as clued up as you can on intellectual property law so you know the ins and outs of protecting your property. The Patent Office tells you everything you need to know if you're wanting to file a patent application. But be wary, this is a long process and takes time and money so only go ahead if you're certain your product is something new that's not been invented yet. There are criteria you need to meet before being able to file an application.
Intellectual property law is a minefield so make sure you know your stuff! It might be a good idea to have a consultation with a lawyer before going ahead with any application or such.
Be careful not to throw away your money. We've all sat and critisied contestants on television for their daft inventions so before you plan what you're buying with your first pay check, be realistic and ask a partner or somebody close to you for their advice.
Alexandra Baracskai