The 1-1/2 day event kicks off with a VC panel, "Pitch Your Prototype," and "Getting Started, case studies of maker pros with early stage products. The Innovation Showcase follows, a unique opportunity to casually engage with over two dozen makers who have their cutting-edge products and devices on display. Creating an almost magical atmosphere where hardware innovation and creative genius generates spirited ideation, the Innovation Showcase is not to be missed. Wednesday was an all-star lineup with over 30 speakers representing leading entrepreneurs and thought leaders at the forefront of the maker movement. Investors, industrial designers, product development teams - anyone looking for insight into the early stage companies with the potential to change the global business landscape - should attend.

1. Dan Roberts
Founder
Scout Alarm
Collaboration: The Wisdom of the Crowd

2. Scout Security
Independent Crowdfunding
Dan Roberts | ScoutAlarm.com | 05.15.13

3. Scout Campaign
Scout is a wireless security system that has no long-term
contracts, the latest technology and a modern design. Scout
is an affordable, renter-friendly solution.
Dan Roberts | ScoutAlarm.com | 05.15.13

4. Independent vs. Dedicated Site
Why we Went Independent:
Kickstarter has new rules
Lockitron showed you can do it yourself
Focus on demand testing core product
Pre-ordering can continue
Brand recognition from the start
We control the experience
Avoid thousands in fees
Dan Roberts | ScoutAlarm.com | 05.15.13

5. Independent vs. Dedicated Site
Dan Roberts | ScoutAlarm.com | 05.15.13

6. Main Concerns
Pre-Campaign Questions:
Can we replace the user base?
Will visitors trust our site enough to purchase?
Are we relying too much on PR?
When should we charge the customer?
Dan Roberts | ScoutAlarm.com | 05.15.13
“ So, press is 95% of the strategy? ” - Kate, Scout
PR

7. Tactics
Replacing the user base:
Initiated a retargeting campaign, day 1
Sent backers regular, shareable updates
Incentivized sharing through competitions
Had multiple angles on press
Dan Roberts | ScoutAlarm.com | 05.15.13
Building Trust:
Seamless, professional website
Leveraged familiar crowdfunding features
Payments through Amazon
No charge until system ships

8. Should You Go Independent?
What You’ll Need:
Strong development team
PR experience or budget to hire PR help
A full-time team on the project
Flexibility on payment timing
Dan Roberts | ScoutAlarm.com | 05.15.13
It’s not right for everyone. You may not have a choice. Don’t
bypass the established sites just for the sake of it.