| Project Summary. The complexity and volume
of patent applications have increased and it takes longer for
the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to issue patents.
The backlog of pending applications has grown from about 244,600
in 1993 to more than 800,000 today, which has raised concerns
about the impact on innovation in the U.S., the quality of some
issued patents, and the adequacy of the agency's work force.
The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Science, State, Commerce
and Justice therefore asked the Academy to examine USPTO’s organization
structure and its work processes to help ensure that USPTO is
making progress in meeting these workload challenges, in implementing
its strategic plan, and is on the right path to transformation.
The Academy Panel reviewed, assessed, and recommended enhanced
organizational and human capital structures, improved USPTO
patent granting processes, and appropriate staff competencies.
The Academy’s work at the USPTO includes strategic planning,
workforce assessment, and workforce planning; organizational
development and transformation/change management; performance
management (to include compensation and performance appraisal
systems); work process design/redesign; and program management
consultation and assistance.
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