In a message dated 12/10/2001 10:09:29 AM Eastern Standard Time,
tim@MCDONOUGH.NET writes:

<< > I'm considering starting a business selling some
 electronics/microcontroller
 > modules I'm developing as a side venture. Does anyone have
 stories of their
 > own successes/failures they could share so I can get a better
 idea of what
 > I'm getting myself into? What kind of volume do you get with
 your niche
 > product? Nightmares with suppliers or product support? Anything
 that might
 > bring me to my senses and make me return to being a slave to
 the Man?

 1) One of the most important things to remember is that your
 customers do not care whether your venture is full-time or
 part-time. If they should have a problem they expect (and
 deserve) it fixed quickly with minimal or no hassle.

 2) It will take a lot more of your free time than you imagine.

 3) Packing and shipping orders isn't very glamorous.

 4) It's really satisfying to see people enjoy something you've
 created!

 Tim
  >>
I would like to add to what Tim has said here that I would suggest that you
try to manufacture products that are more $$ per order.  If you are doing the
order entry, packing and shipping, It is a lot more fun packing a box that
you will make $300 on than 10 orders that you will make $30 on.

I would say try it.  It is very self satisfying and the extra money is nice
also.  My basement business celebrates it's 5th anniversary soon.

Max

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