January 16, 2010

Day 4 :: Muse 1

Today I have started working on the micro-testing web site for the product. I am still working with the manufacturer to clarify how I am allowed to use the brand, and if there is collateral available. After starting to crunch numbers for Fulfillment by Amazon, it looks like they will be a solid partner for fulfillment. I will still need to see how I want to integrate sales from the web site into Amazon because there system is preferential to the transaction take place through Amazon. More or less if I let them handle payment, which I want to, they can completely manage refunds. Downside to this from what I know at this point is that my clients would have to be on Amazon.com to make payment. I am not certain I want that user experience as I feel it could cheapen the experience.

I also looked into using Shopify, but quickly learned all they are offering is an online store application. If I use them I still need acquire a merchant account on my own. Since I only am selling a single product the ability to manage many products and a store of goods is not necessary.

~Nathan Hein

January 14, 2010

Day 2 :: Muse 1

Upon hearing back from the manufacturer/retailer of the product for Muse 1 regarding their marketing strategy, it looks like a pretty promising first Muse for the marketing plan I am assembling. Today I am looking into other manufacturers of the product, and even looking for a higher quality product that what is being offered by the current manufacturer I have lined up. I am hoping I can find a manufacturer that can product an equivalent product for either cheaper, or a higher quality product.

In my research yesterday it became somewhat clear the manufacturer I am working with does not really own any specific patents or rights to produce the item. From what I can see at this point there are no patent holders for the product, hence why I am taking a deeper look into my manufacturer.

On the fulfillment side, I am pretty happy at this point with Amazon’s Fulfillment By Amazon service offering and believe I will go forward with them should I take this product to market.

~Nathan Hein