Tips for Working with an Independent Toy Designer or Inventor
Independent toy inventor/designer
Many of the hottest toys on the market reach industry professionals like yourself through independent designers and inventors. These are a diverse group of individuals with backgrounds ranging from artists and industrial designers to moms and avid tinkerers. You can't always spot the most creative minds from their resume, and you never know where the next hot new idea will come from.
There are basically two ways to work with an independent designer or inventor:
- License work they have done on their own (proprietary designs or inventions)
- Hire them as temporary contractors or consultants
By reviewing proprietary work you may stumble across the next hot new toy. If you are looking to fill a specific space in your line however, you may benefit more from having fresh eyes look at your specific needs and work on solutions tailored to you.
Here are a few tips for working with inventors and independent toy designers. Make some of these folks part of your extended professional network and reap the rewards:
- Prepare a wish list of what type of toys you would like to add to your line (e.g. tub toys, plush infant, large motor skill etc.).
- If you are not sure what you are looking for, set up a brainstorming session with your in-house staff and an independent design/invention consultant to create your wish list and generate a few preliminary ideas.
- Have submission guidelines, non-disclosure agreements and sample licensing contracts prepared and available to your prospective inventors/independent designers.
- Get to know your designer. If possible, meet in person to review past work and proprietary designs. Consider a teleconference when it's not possible to meet in person, or at least talk on the phone.
- Keep a file of samples from each designer you interview, as your future needs may change.
- Always return materials promptly. Most toy companies review submissions roughly the same time of year, so time is money for an inventor or independent designer. Do not hold work for more than 30 days without a licensing contract.
- Include your inventor/independent designer when you modify the design of a toy you have licensed for budget or marketing reasons. They can help you maintain the play value of the toy while meeting your other goals.
- Create an atmosphere of trust by treating your inventors and independent designers with the respect you would any business partner and they will return to you in the future with their best work.
- If you like just part of a proprietary concept, hire the designer to create a revised design or, license just that part of the concept.
- Hire an independent designer to revise older toys or work on existing trouble projects. Bring in some fresh eyes and benefit from their unique perspective.
