I finally saw The Social Network last night. Good movie, although I don’t think it’s possible to develop a compelling story about a young company without taking artistic liberties of some kind. So while much of the film is probably a work of fiction, it reminds me that many entrepreneurs:
- Think that ideas have value.
- Worry that someone will steal their ideas.
- Should spend more time pondering why no one steals their “implementation.”
Going forward, let’s call any person that fits this description Bill Jr.
I frequently hear from Bill Jr. He wants to talk about his latest start-up idea – after I sign his non-disclosure agreement, of course. Why the NDA? Because he thinks that his idea is worth millions.
And that’s the problem – the idea isn’t worth anything. An idea has no value until someone executes on that idea.
So Bill Jr., forgive me for laughing hysterically when you protect your ideas like a mother bear protects her cubs. I just can’t help it.
that’s the same reason so many priceless ideas fail
True, but the protection is so that someone who already has the logistical resources in place doesn’t hear the details and run with it…right?
Not to get all Bill Clinton on you, but it depends on the meaning of “logistical resources.” If you mean that there is a physical manifestation of the idea, then yes, the NDA has its place. It isn’t meant to protect the people playing entrepreneur – those running around with buckets of sugar, milk and eggs, screaming that they’ve got an idea for a new cake. But these people haven’t made the cake yet – and until that happens, there isn’t much to protect.