What are the first steps?

When initial contact is made, and I'm speaking with the client for the first time, the inevitable question is "what are the first steps?".

1) For any new product idea, I suggest a Non-Disclosure Agreement be signed by both parties as the very first step. Before I see any sketches or hear any particulars about the invention, this establishes that I will hold the product details confidential, and I am working for the client's interests only.

2) The next step is to share my standard contract if the client is interested in reviewing the terms and conditions prior to going further. This establishes that I am a "work for hire" contractor, and that whatever work product I generate is automatically the sole property of the hiring party.

3) Once the legalities and relationship are clear, it's time to look at the product details that exist, have a face-to-face meeting if practical, and get down to the nitty-gritty of a plan to make the product a reality. The plan allows me to estimate my time and efforts, fill in the numbers on a contract, and we sign and proceed from there.

The steps aren't complex, and before you know it there are design images to review and design details are becoming reality.