I don't think a day goes by that I don't get ticked off at technology... ...and I love it! Well at least from my inventor perspective. Let me explain... I know, we're supposed to be spinning around this sun pursuing happiness and all things fuzzy, but when it comes to inventing, I love it when I, my kids, or a co-worker gets frustrated with technology, the way things work, the stupid designs we all come across that seem so un-obvious. Why? Because every little thing that gets us frustrated might the beginnings of a beautiful, patentable idea. Here's what I do: When I get frustrated with technology, something clicks in my head to pay attention. And then, (and this is key), I notice WHY I'm frustrated, and then I write it down. I don't solve the problem right then and there, but I've recorded a nugget of inspiration that can later turn into a patentable idea. And it doesn't even have to be me that's frustrated. I can point to at least a couple patents that started with my son saying "Dang, I HATE THIS! If only...". Maybe spend a day and try it. If not for the fun of inventing, maybe for the fun of discovering a new product or service you can make money at! Here are two other things you could try to get ideas to surface: 1) Write down problems you needed to solve regarding a project you work on. Think back to meetings where you and your team wrestled with how to solve a technical issue. Then, recall all of the ideas that you crossed off as 'too lofty' or 'too expensive'. Those may be nuggets for great patents. 2) Sit in a cafeteria/public place and listen for:
- "You'd think they'd..."
- "If only..."
- "It would work so much better if..."
- and my favorite: "They can put a man on the moon, but they can't..."