2003 INPEX® Exhibitors Howard Williams and Kevin Morris Encourage Inventors to Keep Their Ears and Minds Open
Ask Howard Williams and Kevin Morris what the most valuable tool inventors can use is, and they will say, "their ears". Williams and Morris invented the Ketch-A-Fry, a new type of French fry container that would also hold condiments. The two inventors have learned that listening plays an essential role in the development of an invention as well as its inventor. Williams explained, "Every inventor is so eager to tell his or her story that they forget to listen."
Four years ago, the two men from St. Louis, Mo., decided it was time to find a way to keep French fry containers, ketchup and other condiments secure in a vehicle. The noticeable stains on their car seats, clothing and important documents spurred them into action. However, they weren’t sure what their first step should be.
Educating themselves was significant to their understanding of the complex fast-food industry. "Ninety percent of our research was done via the Internet and the other ten percent was done by phone or in person," Williams explained. That research included learning all the major players in the market, new products these companies have been developing, market share percentages, profit and loss information and more. "You should be able to demonstrate in a conversation that you know all there is to know about your product and industry," Williams said. "It buys credibility for both the inventor and the invention." Their knowledge, coupled with patience and persistence, has given Williams and Morris reason to remain hopeful.
For these two inventors, persistence has meant continual involvement in national and international trade shows. Williams believes it’s the only available way to merge the audience (licensors, investors, manufacturers, major companies) with inventors. "It’s also given us the ability to get both positive and negative feedback." Both agree that preparation and research are necessary before attending each trade show.
Once the trade shows are over there is much more to be done. They have learned from experience to "follow-up, follow-up, follow-up." It is important for inventors to maintain ties and build relationships with the people they meet. After each show, Williams and Morris prioritize and contact each individual. According to Williams, "Even if you are not in a position to utilize [the contacts’] services, start building the relationships that will last a lifetime."
Of all the trade shows the inventors have attended, Williams and Morris concluded that, from beginning to end, INPEX proved to be a beneficial resource. According to Williams and Morris, "INPEX is by far the show of all shows for inventors in the USA. We have decided to make INPEX a ‘must’ every year."
Williams and Morris also exhibited Ketch-A-Fry at IENA, the International Exposition, held in Germany in November, where they attempted to increase their exposure internationally and gain more feedback.
When they’re not traveling, Williams and Morris keep their spirits high by keeping in touch with other inventors. Williams explained, "When you receive an e-mail, out of the blue, asking what the status is of your invention and they offer their services or just a genuine ‘best wishes’, it is exactly what you need to stay motivated."
Williams and Morris believe their openness to suggestions and efforts to develop contacts have driven them on their path to innovation.
