Inspired!

The definitive reference guide for developing, launching, and rolling out a new product Each year, thousands of new products are introduced to market. Most fail. What's worse is it doesn't have to be this way. The fact is product failure is rarely the result of either a lack of need or desire for a product, but, rather, is due to an entrepreneur who lacks the know-how to successfully develop, launch and rollout his or her product. Inspired! Take Your Product Dream from Concept to Shelf helps entrepreneurs to successfully navigate the marketplace, avoiding the common mistakes most people make, while finding traction faster, and building an attractive brand that players across the value chain will want will want to buy. Provides readers with inspiring true stories and anecdotes, as well as insightful interviews with top entrepreneurs and merchandisers Presents invaluable research as to producers, designers, distributors, and retailers Divided into three easy-to-follow sections – Development, Launch, and Rollout With unemployment hovering around 10%, many individuals are turning to the world of entrepreneurship. Now more than ever individuals, start-ups, and small businesses need expert guidance on how to bring their products from concept to shelf. Inspired! provides that guidance.

Preface ix Acknowledgments xvii Phase I Development Chapter 1 Develop the Idea 3 Chapter 2 Create Your Product 21 Chapter 3 Brand Marketing 57 Chapter 4 Design the Process 89 Phase II Launch Chapter 5 Packaging a Product 119 Chapter 6 Produce Your Product and Platform 139 Phase III Rollout Chapter 7 Get Distribution, and Get on the Shelf 163 Chapter 8 Demonstrate Local Success 191 Chapter 9 Financing Primer 217 Notes 243 About the Author 245 Index 247