USPTO backlog lower than it’s been in more than a decade: Michelle Lee
The backlog of unexamined patent applications and pendencies at the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is lower than it’s been in more than a decade, according to Michelle Lee, director at the office.
Lee, who was speaking at an IP5 heads of office and industry meeting, also stated that the backlog of unexamined patent applications has dropped by almost a third since its peak in January 2009, despite a 32% increase in applications over this time.
IP5 consists of the USPTO, the European Patent Office, China’s State Intellectual Property Office, the Japan Patent Office and the Korean Intellectual Property Office.
“Our shrinking backlog, along with greater finances, and strong support from the public, has allowed the agency to engage in an exceptional effort to enhance patent quality,” she said.
Lee also provided an update on one of the key objectives in the USPTO’s strategic plan: to provide domestic and global leadership to improve IP policy, protection, and enforcement through global training.
The USPTO provided training to over 7,000 individuals from 114 countries during 2016.
“We also continue to support innovators, including through our four regional offices across the US and through over a dozen IP attaches across the globe,” explained Lee.
One of the top priorities for the office is to make sure the Patent Trial and Appeal Board’s America Invents Act proceedings are as effective and fair as possible.
She said: “With the experience we've gained since 2012, and now five years worth of data, we are continuing to work to improve these proceedings for all parties.”
Lee’s future at the office was initially uncertain after Donald Trump took the US presidency, with speculation that she may step down or be replaced.
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