by eclewis | Jan 5, 2026 | Business News
Developing Business Ideas
In a previous post, we talked about the importance of diversifying your business and the benefits that it can have toward your success. This time, we’ll talk more about developing an initial idea for a business.
Developing a Strong Business Idea: Differentiation, Innovation, and Smart Risk (2026 Update)
In a previous post, we discussed the value of diversifying your business and how doing so can strengthen long-term success. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at where great business ideas come from — and how to evaluate whether your idea has the potential to work.
Most successful businesses begin with one of two core approaches:
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Doing something that other businesses already do — but doing it better, differently, or more effectively, or
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Doing something new or substantially different from what currently exists in the market
Both paths can lead to success — and both come with their own risks and opportunities.
Competing in an Existing Market — with a Meaningful Differentiator
If your business model is similar to others already operating in your industry, your success often depends on having a clear differentiator. That difference may come from:
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Superior customer service or client experience
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Greater expertise or specialization
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More convenient hours or location
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Technology-enabled efficiency
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A stronger brand or reputation
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Pricing strategy or value-based offerings
The benefit of entering an existing market is that you already know customers exist and that the model can work. You’re not reinventing the wheel — but you do need a compelling reason for customers to choose your business over others.
Introducing Something New — Innovation and Its Risks
Launching a business that does something new or significantly different can create exciting opportunities — but it can also carry greater uncertainty.
A lack of competitors may mean:
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Others have tried and failed
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The idea requires regulatory or licensing approvals
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The market isn’t large or ready enough to support the concept yet
On the other hand, being unique can make it easier to gain attention and early customers — at least until competitors eventually follow, which they often do if your idea proves successful.
Both innovation and imitation require strategy, planning, and resilience.
Blending the Two Approaches
In many cases, entrepreneurs find success by combining existing concepts in a new way — creating a hybrid business model that delivers value from more than one direction.
Examples include:
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Service-based businesses that integrate technology or automation
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Retail concepts paired with experience-based offerings
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Professional practices that also offer education, training, or digital resources
This approach can allow you to:
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Attract customers from multiple audiences
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Differentiate without starting from a completely untested idea
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Spread risk across more than one revenue source
It is also closely aligned with modern diversification strategies many businesses use to stay adaptable in changing markets.
Opportunity and Uncertainty in Today’s Business Environment
The pace of technological change, shifts in consumer behavior, and evolving economic conditions mean that ideas that didn’t exist five or ten years ago may now be viable — and sometimes even in high demand.
However, that same pace of change also means:
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Markets can evolve quickly
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Competitive conditions can shift faster than expected
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Long-term projections are often more uncertain than they once were
A strong business idea in 2026 requires not only creativity, but also research, validation, and thoughtful planning.
Before You Launch — Get Professional Guidance
Whatever idea you are considering, it is important to talk with experienced advisers before moving forward. Legal, financial, tax, licensing, and regulatory considerations can significantly affect risk, structure, and long-term viability.
A knowledgeable small-business attorney can help you understand:
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Formation and ownership structure options
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Liability and compliance risks
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Contracts, financing, and partnership considerations
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Intellectual property and branding protections
Good planning early in the process can save significant time, stress, and expense later.
If you’re thinking about starting a business or exploring a new business idea, I would be happy to help you evaluate your options and understand the legal considerations involved. Contact me, Elizabeth Lewis, at the Law Office of E.C. Lewis, P.C., your Denver Business Attorney.
Phone: 720-258-6647
Email: elizabeth.lewis@eclewis.com
by eclewis | Feb 28, 2022 | FAQ, Software Licensing
Do I Need a Lawyer for App Development ?
It’s easy to believe that all of the time and effort that goes into designing and creating an app is dedicated just to its development and construction. While this is generally true in the beginning stages of app development, you may have to deal with a headache later on if others try to steal your innovative ideas and creative work. It is upsetting to watch all of your hard work and money be wasted because your new software was not put through the proper legal process before it was launched on the app store. Hiring a lawyer for app development can help prevent unforeseen issues from derailing your success.
Things to Consider When Developing an App
Software Compliance
In the world of software and app development, regulatory compliance is viewed as one of the most critical concerns. Keeping things in balance, minimizing risks, and adhering to the laws now and in the future requires developers to be aware of the many industry-specific regulations regarding software development security. It also helps them stay in compliance with the most stringent rules, laws, legal texts, and legal landscapes and adjustments by having an awareness of this policy.
Privacy Issues
The privacy policy of an app is a statement that just about every app uses. Most countries have privacy regulations that require app developers to present app users with a privacy policy statement that they agree to in order to use the app. According to federal and state privacy rules, app developers may be held liable for any data that is shared or retained in their programs, so having a sound privacy policy is important.
Third-Party Services
Along with the privacy policy, another concern is the risk of third-party leaks of proprietary information throughout the development phase. NDAs (nondisclosure agreements) are essential to ensuring that other parties will retain confidential information. Legal aid may be required in the preparation of the NDAs required for approval of use of third parties and to make sure the third parties have contractual obligations not just to the developer, but the owner of the app as well.
Contracts to Protect You And Your Employees
Written contracts for app development are another part of app development that must not be overlooked. Proper legal contracts should be one of the first steps in establishing yourself as a professional developer who is serious about app development. Protecting yourself and the individuals you work with should be done with written contracts that include crucial documents like a Technology Assignment Agreement, Independent Contractor Agreement, Service or License Agreement, Privacy Policy, and an NDA. Decide who owns the code and what rights each owner has if held jointly. Having all the programmers transfer their code to a firm in exchange for a stake in the company, cash, or a future promise is another technique to consolidate title. But whatever you decide to do, put it in writing and have it reviewed by an experienced lawyer.
When Should I Hire A Lawyer for App Development?
Hiring a lawyer for app development should be done somewhere in between the initial idea for the app being discussed, especially with third parties, and before it becomes available to the public. It is not advised to release an app on any app store before seeking legal advice. Before hiring developers or other employees, it is advised to establish legally sound contracts that will protect the work that you have already put into the app and the ideas that belong to you.
For many years, Elizabeth Lewis worked in the Information Technology industry and has a deep understanding of the issues that face people when developing an app. If you’re in the process of developing an app, don’t hesitate to reach out for legal advice.
by eclewis | Jul 5, 2017 | Business News, Internet Law, Software Licensing
The Five C’s of Software Licensing
Software licensing can be a daunting combination where the perplexing realm of technology meets legal jargon. Defined as legal documents or contracts that govern the use and distribution of software, these licenses provide necessary protection for your business. Without proper licensing, you may be prone to someone stealing your intellectual property, or you may unwittingly commit copyright infringement. As a small business owner, it is essential to understand the importance of software licensing in order to protect your business’s brand or product and to avoid illegally using someone else’s. When the terms and contracts are beyond an IT issue, Attorney Elizabeth Lewis will help you work through it. Here are 5 essential areas of software licensing.
- Copyright
- Contracts
- Codes
- Confidentiality
- Compliance
1. Copyright
Whether you are a mom and pop store or an expanding enterprise, your intellectual property is as valuable as your merchandise. A lot of work goes into creating marketing concepts, a logo, a business plan, and overall operations/procedures. If you neglect to protect these assets through software copyright, you will be defenseless against others profiting from what you created. Registering your software copyright with the U.S. copyright office reinforces your copyrights, especially if you ever have to take someone to court. A small business attorney will help you determine what aspects of your business – a website, a product, or an idea – need to be protected by a software license.
2. Contracts
No one hires a disgruntled employee, but people can become dissatisfied over time and want to damage your business. There are contracts to safeguard your company from any employees who may try to exploit the knowledge they have accessed while working for you. Non-compete agreements are clauses under which employees cannot create businesses like yours while you employ them or start a similar one for a determined amount of time after they leave your employment; however they are only allowed in certain situations in Colorado so it is important to know if one will really protect you or if you need to use other means as well. Other employment agreements state simply that you own any work that your employees do for you. Confidentiality agreements protect your trade secrets and prohibit others from giving damaging insight into the operations of your business. An attorney will
help you take all of the necessary precautions to protect your intellectual property and represent you in the event of these types of theft.
3. Codes
Open source code licenses allow anyone to use, modify, and share your licensed software. You may not be able to govern every single user’s actions, but you are still protected as the original creator and are entitled to credit for your contributions. These licenses can make it easy for others to share, contribute, and build upon your project without having to obtain special permission. Issues with noncompliance and proper licensing can arise when using open source code licenses. An attorney will help you with these issues as well as any open-source versus proprietary software dilemmas.
4. Confidentiality
Your business’s success depends on your competitive advantage, something you can maintain by protecting your intellectual property. Keeping your trade secrets a secret takes measures, including confidentiality agreements and nondisclosure agreements. Software licenses keep some of your most valuable information – ideas, practices, applications, websites – safely guarded.
5. Compliance
We have all scrolled rapidly to the end of the terms of an agreement and clicked “I agree” without necessarily comprehending or even reading all of the words. As a software user, it is crucial to obtain your software through legal means, know precisely who is allowed to use it and how many copies are covered by the license, and read and understand the license agreement. Many small business owners do not purchase enough copies of software, thinking they can use one copy for everyone. This will inevitably lead to consequences from having your software disabled to facing huge fines or litigation. A small business attorney will ensure you have taken the necessary precautions and represent you in the event of a software licensing violation.
If you need help with software licensing, contact me, Elizabeth Lewis, at the Law Office of E.C. Lewis, P.C., home of your Denver Business Attorney. Phone: 720-258-6647. Email: elizabeth.lewis@eclewis.com
Contact Us Today
Law Office of E.C. Lewis, P.C.
Your Denver Business Attorney
LICENSED IN COLORADO AND NORTH CAROLINA
Mailing Address:
501 S. Cherry Street, Suite 1100
Denver, CO 80246
720-258-6647
Elizabeth.Lewis@eclewis.com
by eclewis | Apr 15, 2016 | Business News
Small Business Work-Life Balance
Work-life balance is one of those issues we often hear about when it comes to employees, but what about small business owners and entrepreneurs?
Being a small business owner is challenging. It takes a lot of time and energy in order to keep the business going and growing. This can often lead to the assumption that the more time you put into something, namely, your business, then the more you will get out of it. Right? Maybe, maybe not, but you should try and be smart about it.
Consider this, studies show that the belief that multitasking is a powerful productivity tool is a myth. If you are in the middle of a personal, non-business task at home for example, then it might be a good idea to finish that up and then take care of that business matter later. Of course there are always exceptions, emergencies do happen, but do not automatically assume that making your business your number one priority will always lead you to better business results. If you come back to that business task with your full attention, you will likely complete it better and in less time.
Another way to help you obtain a better work-life balance would be to set aside one day out of the week (or maybe even the whole weekend if possible) to not do anything business-related. Think carefully about what day you choose, and make sure it is one that can work for you. For example, if your business gets an important delivery on Saturdays where there are commonly questions or problems with it, then that might not be a good day to choose. This can allow you to decompress, get some greater perspective, and then be ready to jump back into work more inspired and reinvigorated. Burnout is real, and taking steps to overcome it or prevent it now will reward you and your business over the long-term.
A common problem with work-life balance for small business owners is when you operate a home-based business. When you are in this situation, it can be hard to ever feel like you are off-the-clock and actually able to relax in your own home. If you are in this situation, consider limiting all of your business operations, equipment, inventory, et cetera, to one or two rooms in your home. If you have business items strewn across the house, you will likely find yourself thinking about work everywhere you go at home. Additionally, if you do all of your work at home, then it might be a good idea to keep a strict schedule for yourself of working hours. Get in a routine. Together, these tactics should train your brain to focus better on your business by concentrating both when and where you work in a common and predictable way for yourself.
Whatever your small business’ circumstances, it is crucial that you give it 100%, but you cannot do that if you are trying to work 100% of the time. We are all human after all, and we need to eat, sleep, get some rest, and spend some time with our families in order to be at our best on the job. So try and strive for a reasonable work-life balance for yourself, and you will likely be a better person and business owner for it. Lastly, remember not to feel guilty for taking some time out or else you likely will not experience the benefits of rest and balancing your work and the rest of your life. Just give it a try and see if it works for you.
If you need legal advice for your business, or are ready to start a new business of your own, then don’t hesitate to reach out and contact the Law Office of E.C. Lewis, P.C., home of your Denver Business Attorney, Elizabeth Lewis, at 720-258-6647 or email her at elizabeth.lewis@eclewis.com.
Contact Us Today
Law Office of E.C. Lewis, P.C.
Your Denver Business Attorney
LICENSED IN COLORADO AND NORTH CAROLINA
Mailing Address:
501 S. Cherry Street, Suite 1100
Denver, CO 80246
720-258-6647
Elizabeth.Lewis@eclewis.com
by eclewis | Apr 7, 2016 | Business News
Craft Beer is a Billion-Dollar Economic Driver in CO
As today is National Beer Day, what better way to celebrate than talking about beer! According to a study released by the University of Colorado’s Leeds School of Business in association with the Colorado Brewers Guild, small, locally-owned breweries had an overall economic impact of 1.15 billion dollars on the Colorado Economy for the year of 2014, and it employs over 6,000 workers in Colorado.
This is good news for Colorado as one of the top craft beer brewing states in the country. At the end of last year’s count, there were 261 craft breweries in Colorado, with more and more popping up all the time. The latest figures now have the count at over 300! Altogether, this means that you likely don’t have to go very far to find excellent beer in or near your neighborhood. These Colorado craft beer brewers are made up of small businesses that simply love great beer and Colorado. They just want to share their passion with others, and consumers have been buying.
Overall, the craft beer takeover is not showing any signs of slowing down yet, but how long can it continue to grow at these rates? This is growing concern. How much is too much craft beer in one area? As far as the national numbers go, craft beer is still only sitting at just over 12% of the beer market share, but more locally, the market may be experiencing a lot more crowding. The growth and interest in craft beer is likely making the bigger, national brewers nervous too, who may be looking to buy some of the smaller brewers or get more creative with their own beer offerings to try to compete.
Another ongoing concern for craft brewers is a potential ballot initiative that would allow for grocery stores and other big retailers to be able to start selling full-strength beer inside, an issue we discussed previously here. They fear this could lead to more consumers opting for buying some of the more national brand offerings at these larger stores rather than going to their local liquor stores who tend to have large selections of local, craft beer offerings. Then there is also the impact on local small business liquor store owners being affected by the change as well. Craft beer is certainly an industry worth watching here in Colorado, whether you work in small or big business.
If you need legal help for your craft brewery, then don’t hesitate to reach out and contact the Law Office of E.C. Lewis, P.C., home of your Denver Business Attorney, Elizabeth Lewis, at 720-258-6647 or email her at elizabeth.lewis@eclewis.com.
Contact Us Today
Law Office of E.C. Lewis, P.C.
Your Denver Business Attorney
LICENSED IN COLORADO AND NORTH CAROLINA
Mailing Address:
501 S. Cherry Street, Suite 1100
Denver, CO 80246
720-258-6647
Elizabeth.Lewis@eclewis.com
