Testing the market

[Astaroth]

The missus has come up with a reasonable idea for a B2B service which from a quick search on the net has shown up no other companies offering the same service.

The service area we are well versed in but the "new spin" on it would be aimed at a market sector which we have little/ no experience in and therefore are uncertain what the level of appitite would actually be.

Of cause the problem is avoiding releasing the idea so that someone with more capital can launch a similar service quicker/ more high profile marketing but at the same time find out the level of interest.

I have asked in the Legal forum if there is a way of protecting the idea (cheaply initially) other than getting NDA agreements signed by everyone I approach but I guess my question here would be... what is the best way to test the appitite in the B2B market?

Cheers

[bizguy]

You could possibly perform a survey on other B2B market sectors that are similar to the business idea you want to make into a business in order to get a feel for what the market is looking for. Another possible thing you can do is to attend B2B conferences and conventions. Try to network with other B2B practitioners and try to pick their brains for ideas and insights regarding the sector in general and related markets, in particular. I know that these people would be more than happy to accommodate you and answer your B2B related questions. Another good idea is to make a focus group to discuss your idea (but this might be a little risky if you want to keep your idea secret -- unless you want them to sign non-disclosure agreements).

Good luck in your new endeavour!

[quotes4]

Ah, the age old problem. I have a fantastic new idea that no-one else has thought of but if i reveal it then everyone will copy it.
The fact that you've searched the internet and not found anyone else offering it tells me one thing - either you really have found the holy grail of business ideas or, it's not profitable so no-one else is bothering with it.
In my experience there are very few business ideas that are innovative and new. One or two come around every ten years really and are usually off the back of technology advancements which have made them possible (such as SMS or ring tones on mobile phones).
If you want to move your idea forward, and you really think it's original and profitable, i would suggest approaching the many business support programmes that are around the UK now. There is a lot of government funding for new business start-ups (especially here in Wales) and they can provide you with the support you need.