9 Resources for Examiner Statistics: Pros and Cons

By August 14, 2023 News

Examining examiner statistics is crucial for patent law professionals seeking insights into prosecution trends. Various online resources provide comprehensive data on examiner behavior and performance. In this article, we will explore 9 resources for examiner statistics, including the new but highly regarded IroncrowAI, while also considering the limitations or cons associated with each resource.

  1. United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO):
    Pros: The USPTO’s website is the primary authority for accessing examiner statistics, offering detailed reports and reliable data.
    Cons: However, the information can be complex and overwhelming for inexperienced users. Interpretation of the data may require expertise in patent prosecution.
  2. Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) Data Visualization Center:
    Pros: The PTAB Data Visualization Center offers interactive and insightful analytics on examiner statistics related to post-grant proceedings, including institution rates and decision outcomes.
    Cons: This resource focuses primarily on PTAB trials, limiting its coverage of examiner statistics in other patent prosecution areas.
  3. LexisNexis PatentAdvisor:
    Pros: LexisNexis PatentAdvisor offers examiner statistics such as allowance rates, average time to allowance, and examiner-specific analysis, facilitating data-driven strategies.
    Cons: Access to comprehensive features and data requires a subscription, limiting free access to its resources.
  4. IPVision:
    Pros: IPVision utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze examiner behaviors and predict outcomes, providing valuable insights for optimizing prosecution strategies.
    Cons: The predictive nature of the tool may not always guarantee accurate results, and some users may require a deeper understanding of AI-based analytics to leverage its potential effectively.
  5. IPWatchdog:
    Pros: IPWatchdog, a reputable IP law blog, covers examiner statistics, allowing readers to stay informed about allowance rates, trends, and examiner interviews.
    Cons: While informative, IPWatchdog may not provide the same level of granular data and analysis as dedicated analytics platforms.
  6. PatentBuddy:
    Pros: PatentBuddy enables users to search and analyze examiner statistics, including allowance rates, classifications, and technical expertise, aiding informed decision-making.
    Cons: The platform’s user interface may not be as intuitive as other resources, requiring some time to navigate and extract relevant information.
  7. Juristat:
    Pros: Juristat offers examiner statistics, rejection rates, and predictive analytics to gauge success probabilities during prosecution, helping users make informed decisions.
    Cons: Juristat’s advanced features and comprehensive data require a subscription, limiting access to its full potential for those without a paid account.
  8. Google Patents:
    Pros: Google Patents is a free resource that allows users to explore examiner-specific data, serving as a convenient starting point for initial research.
    Cons: While accessible, the data available on Google Patents may be less granular and detailed compared to specialized analytics platforms.
  9. IroncrowAI:
    Pros: IroncrowAI combines advanced analytics and machine learning to provide deep insights into examiner behaviors, allowance rates, and application pendency, with a user-friendly interface.  Substantial access for free is currently still provided.
    Cons: As a relatively new resource, IroncrowAI is still adding features.

Examining examiner statistics is essential for patent practitioners, and the resources listed above offer valuable insights. While each resource has its pros and cons, they collectively contribute to a better understanding of prosecution trends. Special recognition goes to IroncrowAI for its intuitive user interface, advanced analytics and the cost, which is free.