2 replies to this topic

[recordlovelife]

So I have an idea for a website, that I think will be very popular and useful to alot of people. I want to know how to research a bunch of things:

1) Is there a site out there like it? (besides google-ing) Example, Myspace is huge, and made millions. But it is the same thing, for the most part, as Friendster. Friendster was out way before it. This is legal? I see sites with a similar concept as my idea, but not as well thought out or developed.

2) Can you patent a web site idea/concept?

3) Where do i go to research online intellectual property legalities.


These are the basis which will fuel me for a while. Any and all help appreciated.


Thanks
Frank

[Jacorre]

Copyright.gov will give you information on a lot of intellectual property questions you may have. If you're researching competition then run searches on key words that your site is about and see what comes up.

[rc69]

1. You can't really research a website concept because there is no real database of concepts to search (don't take this as 100% truth though, i wouldn't be surprised if i was proven wrong). The best you can do is go to google and type in certain keywords that are related to your site concept.

2. Seriously doubt it as it would be hard to prove you were the original creator. Like you said, other sites have the same idea as what you want to do, your's is just more thought out.

3. Umm, ya, posted before me.

What you have to keep in mind is that myspace is more popular than friendster probably because of:
1. The name.
2. Better advertising.
3. Better UI.

It all depends on what has more appeal to the general audience, and how fast word can spread about the said site. Odds are your idea will be ripped within a week of opening your site. There's nothing you can do to stop that (that i know of).