Managing Intellectual Property

USPTO funding plans under scrutiny

20 July 2010

Eileen McDermott, New York

A bid for additional funding, a lofty long-term strategic plan and a proposal for a new patent examination system all highlight the USPTO’s claim that change is critical to the Office’s future economic health

Later today, the Office will host a public roundtable discussion with stakeholders about its new three-track patent examination system proposal, which it says would "promote greater efficiency in the patent examination process".

The three-track system is one of a number of changes the Office has proposed to increase efficiency and quality.

In February, USPTO director David Kappos implemented a new examiner count system meant to increase efficiency by giving examiners more time and changing the way they are rewarded for their work.

USPTO Director David Kappos

But in order to achieve the key goals identified last week in its 2010-2015 draft strategic plan , the Office said that adequate funding remains the most crucial factor.

President Obama last week asked Congress to approve $129 million in supplemental funding for the Office to use...



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