Where to find new marketing ideas

Early on in any engineering design process, there's always a period of fact-finding.

• What are other people doing successfully? Let’s make sure we make use of any existing knowledge and build on what others have achieved.
• How will you build this system? What techniques will be most appropriate? What components should you consider including? Which suppliers will you use? What are the costs likely to be?
• Is there any IP we need to be aware? Are there any regulatory restrictions that need to be considered?

​Apply the same process to your marketing.

What are other people doing successfully? 

Read up about similar activities and marketing processes that other companies have done both inside and outside your industry.
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Great marketing ideas might from companies that appear to have very little in common with your business. They might even be outside your industry. However, you might be able to use the same principle successfully if your strategy is similar.

How will you build it?

There are so many different marketing tools and techniques available. Being aware of what's out there will help you to plan marketing activities that will effectively reach and connect with your audience. Of course, it's easier said than done to keep up with marketing developments. However, this should be an ongoing habit: keeping an eye out for new developments that might improve your marketing.
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Get a feel for the likely budget cost and time-investment of different tools and activities. This can disqualify an idea early, before too much time has been wasted. 

What IP and regulatory restrictions will affect us? 

It sounds obvious, but it can be missed in the excitement of a brilliant and affordable marketing idea. Always be aware of any existing trademarks or copyright issues that might impact on your activities.
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Check marketing regulations in your industry to ensure the claims you want to make are allowed. If necessary, seek expert industry or legal advice.