My academic advisor, Matt, told me couple weeks ago of a new idea he had for automated prescription reminders. Software that would alert you via text message or email to take your medication or monitor your blood pressure based on whatever condition you might have.
Its a great idea, but to Matt's chagrin, this service is readily available in reminder form right on your cellphone. Also, Google Calendar allows you to received automated email reminders for events you've pre-programmed. For free!
Despite this fact, there's a sense of satisfaction that comes out of the process of discovery even if that discovery has already been made. The sigh for what could have been is mixed in with gratitude for the person who worked so hard to bring that service or product to life.
I had such a feeling when Netflix came out and much more recently when I discovered that the niche of health care blogging wasn't as empty as I thought. It sobers you and makes you realize just how much effort is involved in making an idea a reality.