|
|
Invention & Innovation Services
Invention Review
With invention, Thomas Edison said 'there are no rules here – we're trying to accomplish something new' but how can you be sure that your idea is a good one? We know that if you have a new idea, you'll experience two conflicting desires, firstly to tell the world, to shout from the rooftops about the fantastic new widget which will revolutionise the way widgets are used across the globe, and secondly, to tell no-one, to protect your idea from those who would steal it from you – so, how to get a 'sense check'? Firstly, you could confide in trusted friends and family, but if you would like a commercially focussed, technically astute review of your idea, NeQstep can help. Our team of inventor/experts will meet with you to discuss your idea in confidence, under our Non Disclosure Agreement, or yours if you'd prefer?
Partnerships & Collaborations
We all know how much time and expertise it takes to get a new technology to market, but how do you build the right team to work with you through the commercialisation process. By identifying the challenges which lie ahead, NeQstep will ascertain what resources will best serve your project and introduce you to members of our Innovation Network who might be able to help. Relationships will fall into two categories consultant/contractors, or partners – where a partner is sought advice will be offered on the structure and management of your partnership.
Project Strategy & Management
It is often rather daunting when you start thinking about the next step for your idea. NeQstep will help you determine each step of the journey, and break these down into small and manageable work packages. A balance of each steps' value to the project as well as its' cost will be considered in your Strategy to identify the next step for your project. By taking each step in a well-reasoned order, and applying a stage gate control NeQstep will help give your project the best chance of success and manage the risks involved in taking a product to market.
Market Identification & Analysis
Ideas often originate outside the industry they are intended for, it is therefore critical to clearly define the market you intend to target – there may be a number, in which case consideration must be given to where you start? NeQstep will help you identify your initial target market and provide a preliminary market analysis. This analysis is likely to be sufficient in the early stages, and will later help target your market research ensuring you get the best possible results.
Prototype Development
Prototypes play an important role in developing a concept and in communication of ideas to other stakeholders in the project. A concept can be represented by a number of prototypes, with one perhaps representing the aesthetic appearance while another illustrates all or some aspects of the function. They can be real or virtual computer models. NeQstep use an innovative process to ensure that the purpose of a prototype is clear in terms of what questions are answered ensuring the most effective use of your resources.
Manufacturing Feasibility
Manufacturing method should be considered from the outset as sometimes small variations in the design will cause a significant difference in the cost of the product. In this way we can avoid ending up with a product which is too expensive or unprofitable to sell.
Intellectual Property (IP)
NeQstep will work with you to quantify the Intellectual Property or IP surrounding your idea as well as providing advice on the protection, costs and timing. Some of the options you might consider are: patents, trademarks, copyright, registered designs, as well as use of non-disclosure or trade secrets. Consideration will also be given to prior art thereby reducing the risk of infringing other people's Intellectual Property.
Business Plans, Investment Presentations & Grant/Loan Applications
Having successfully raised funding for a number of projects to date, we are always willing to share our experience in this area. We will work with you or on your behalf to prepare a business plan, investment presentation, or grant/loan application. NeQstep will help you understand what funding opportunities are available at each stage of the commercialisation process and how to give yourself the best possible chance of success.
|
|