Have you ever had a brainstorm that resulted in what seemed to be a great idea for a new business? Perhaps you have had that 3 a.m. idea that would help kids stay away from drugs — like starting a Boys and Girls Club in Kitsap County. But what if your idea was a way to save counter space in your kitchen — perhaps creating a toaster that mounts to the wall? The latter sounds a little silly — intentionally. The real question is how do you know if your idea is worth pursuing?

It's not easy to see your idea without your passion. After all, it is your idea. And, what success would one have starting or maintaining a business without passion? Often, we look to friends and family to test our idea — and they will probably support us. Yet, how at this early stage do you put the passion aside — just for the moment — and look at your idea from a practical point of view? It would be helpful to have an impartial professional review your concept. But first, you can help yourself by considering some of these questions:

What problem does it solve?

People buy products or services because they have a need. If no one else is doing what you want to do, make sure your idea is truly solving a problem, and not merely an expression of your passion.

Does it solve it for a broad group, or is this a niche market solution?

Understanding the demand for your product will help you understand how broad your market is. Once you have a sense of your product's marketplace, could you sell enough of it at a reasonable price to make a profit?

What background or experience can you draw upon?

Previous experience is golden. Choose a business in an industry with which you are familiar — the learning curve is shorter and you will already know the in's and out's. Also, it is best to draw upon your strengths and passions. You will be spending a great deal of time launching your business — so your background and passion will carry you through the challenges that lie ahead.

Is anyone else doing this?

If so, what is their success? Research the marketplace and understand who your competition is. Learn why they are successful or struggling, and if there is still an unmet need.

Is it cost-effective?

Some ideas are wonderful, but are too costly to implement. Can you price your product or service attractively to your customers, and still make a profit? And, make sure you have a grasp on how much cash you will need to start your business — services like consulting require very little funding, while a manufacturing business, for example, requires a great deal of money to purchase materials and support an infrastructure.

Once you answer these initial questions and decide to move ahead, find a professional who can help you dig a little deeper and determine if the toaster on the wall idea could turn into cash. The Washington Small Business Development Center website is a good starting place: www.wsbdc.org, or call us at the Kitsap Business Assistance Center, 360-307-4220. We're here to help with business plans, marketing and financial plans and other assistance to get your business off to a good start.

(Editor’s Note: Wendy Miles, Director of Customized Training and Military Education at Olympic College, oversees the operation of the Kitsap Business Assistance Center (KBAC). For partnership opportunities, contact her at 360-475-7786. For business counseling needs call the KBAC at 360-307-4220.).