How does the USPTO ensure accurate time and activity recording for patent examiners?

The USPTO ensures accurate time and activity recording for patent examiners through several mechanisms outlined in MPEP 1705:

1. PALM System: Examiners use the Patent Application Locating and Monitoring (PALM) system to record their time and activities.
2. Regular Updates: The MPEP states, “Examiners should update the PALM system at least three times per day.” This frequent updating helps maintain accuracy.
3. Bi-weekly Certification: According to MPEP 1705, “At the end of each biweek, examiners are required to certify their time and activity records.” This ensures regular verification of recorded data.
4. Supervisory Review: Supervisors can review and monitor examiner records to ensure accuracy and compliance with USPTO policies.

These measures help maintain the integrity of the patent examination process and provide reliable data for workload management and performance evaluation.

To learn more:

• time recording
• activity tracking
• PALM system
• examiner certification