Hi Dan. I think that it may depend on the search, type of product, and the company that is conducting the search. The concept for “Eggies” was a submitted as a pencil drawing along with the written submission and that has gone on into full production and has experienced sales in excess of two million units.

Some search partners have deeper pockets than others and are (seemingly to me) willing to put more money into development and design. The only example I’m able to give based on my personal experience with EN is from recent Kitchen Gadget Search vs. the Power Strip/Surge Protector Search. I submitted an “idea” that received a R8 in the Kitchen Gadget Search and the feedback from the sponsor stated that the product would, in their opinion, be cost prohibitive due to research and development costs. I’m more of an idea guy with, really, no skill in the engineering department… but the idea was about as complex as a traditional egg timer. So, I don’t think they were here to “develop” a product and were looking for more of an “end” product that already had all the kinks worked out and was ready for production. The Power Strip Search on the other hand actually stated in the search description that they were looking for product ideas that they could develop. This evaluation process for this search is still ongoing after about three months and I’m still at G7 in it. I believe it’s taking a long time to evaluate the products because they have to consider the fact that they are starting from zero with many of the submissions and will have to build the product out of an idea… and I believe they are willing to put the money into that process. This is all just speculation on my part, but I don’t really have any means to provide a definite answer for you… but I can say that I have wondered about the exact same question myself.

In closing, I think you have to consider the type of search and the search sponsor and look at the wording in the Search description carefully before you consider submitting an a idea that maybe no more than “just an idea” (as most of mine are). Good luck!
~ Chip Njaa

Hi Chip and Dan,

Chip, you are exactly correct. It really depends on the criteria of the search sponsor – some want near finished products, or demonstrable products, some are okay with concepts depending on the search.

We always ask to make your submission complete enough to ensure the review team and hopefully the search sponsor, will be able to see what is innovative about your product.

Thanks Chip i appreciate it, oh and cool dog! and as always you to Michelle

Hey Dan,
I tend to lean towards having the idea as close to and end product as possible. I try to put myself in the position of someone being introduced to your idea and what it would take to have them really get the idea. What resonates with you more, a product…or a picture of a product? I don’t think everyone has the imagination to fully envision an idea the way you would want…so why not eliminate the need for them to? That’s just my opinion, but it seemed to work for me before so I’m stickin’ to it! :)

Good luck!

Hey.

Ha! Sorry…I pressed enter by accident. Yea, I’m cool….what’s up? :)