It is probably safe to say that there are as many successful approaches to product development as there are successful products on the market. Beyond that, because our expertise is in patent and intellectual property law, we can only point to potential resources that might be able assist you with developing your product and business.

As you seek assistance, beware that there a number of unscrupulous Invention Promoters (a.k.a. Invention Marketers, Invention Brokers, etc.) that are generally known for high-pressure sales techniques, misrepresentations, and even fraud. Read our and other's cautions before proceeding with anyone who seems to fit this description.

Although we can't vouch for them, or the names or services they list, here are several potentially valuable resources:

Inventorfraud.com's list of "Good Guys"

PatentCafe.com's IP Business Centers

"The Complete Idiot's Guide to Cashing in on Your Invention" by Richard C. Levy, ISBN: 0028642201; 2002.

"Will It Sell? How to Determine If Your Invention Is Profitably Marketable (Before Wasting Money on a Patent)" by James E. White, ISBN: 0967649404; 2000.

"Stand Alone, Inventor!: And Make Money With Your New Product Ideas!" by Robert G. Merrick, ISBN: 0964383209; 1998.