We’ve all done it. Anticipating some much needed R&R time and in the middle of our activity, realize that it would be that much better, “Only if.”  That “only if” could be something small like “only if I didn’t have this nagging feeling that I left my garage door open –but I’m sure I didn’t” to “only if I had brought some spare batteries for my camera so I can capture this once in a lifetime event before me” —these “only if” moments are prime kernals of innovation waiting to emerge. Many times, if we experience an issue or a desire, you can likely bet there are others who have the same need.

Of course the question for true product acceptance and creating a viable product is “how many” people have this same desire or issue —or if it can be easily adapted or broadened to solve several problems simultaneously.

And that’s where the journey of product innovation and development begins. “Only if” may begin with a personal curiosity or need to solve a personal problem…but with the right tools and processes and persistence, it could actually be the “next big thing.”

“Only if” we have the desire to make it happen.