Another low-cost method of obtaining an unbiased, quality evaluation is to submit it to the Wisconsin Innovation Service Center. Both are highly regarded. The book's resource section has their addresses. From the first conception of your idea to the putting of your product into your customer's hands, there is virtually no area he does not cover. He recommends using a sourcing agent when dealing in off-shore purchasing.
Product promotion can be vital to a product's success.
Merrick gives examples of how he obtained, for free, publicity worth tens of thousands of dollars. This includes write-ups in influential newspapers such as the Wall Street Journal which reaches almost 2 million businesspeople. He goes into details about packaging. He covers bags, blister, shells and shelf boxes. Virtually all store-sold items today must bear a barcode.