Discussion: publication of patent applications

This is an opportunity to find out what applicants want from the patent application system. In particular, what users want in relation to how and when patent applications are published. It will also enable the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) to consider how we might use resources more appropriately.

The document includes ideas on changes to the way the IPO might publish patent applications differently in the future. We are looking for as much insight as possible so that we can assess whether these ideas are worth pursuing further. A number of possibilities are presented, and it may be that more than one option will be pursued.