Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

I have a dilemma...

I have an additional service that cellular providers could offer to their customer base, however I am afraid that if I share my idea, they will take the idea and create it themselves.  Unfortunately, the service is not something that can be patented.  To give you a similar senario it would be like the individual that came up with ring tones.

I have come up with three solutions and would like some feedback if possible:

1. Develop software to install on all of the cell phones
2. Offer the service to cellular providers
3. Create or partner with a cellular company

I believe that this idea is a revolutionary product and would draw customers to the company that offers the service.  I strongly believe that this service would propel a company to the #1 market position.

Can you provide a service to the provider for your idea. For one, software support and updates. The person who invented ringtones owns the software that he supports through the providers. Cell phone companies are sales based, but they are always looking for innovative software product.

If you can`t provide the service yourself, and if it can`t be patented, then I`d propose just telling some provider and letting go of the idea. At least it would make people`s lives easier. Since you can`t actually "do" anything about the idea, it`s not going to be worth much.....to you personally.