Top IP Docketing Software Compared
IP docketing is the backbone of any serious IP practice, and the difference between good and bad docketing software is the difference between catching deadlines and missing them.
These tools track every patent and trademark in a portfolio, calculate due dates automatically and flag what needs attention before it becomes urgent.
What to compare
- Accuracy of automated deadline calculations
- Support for multiple jurisdictions and rule sets
- Ease of bulk data import and migration
- Reporting and audit trail capabilities
Questions to ask vendors
- How are jurisdiction rule changes handled
- What happens to your data if you leave
- Is there a track record of missed-deadline protection
- How is the system kept current with the law
An IP docketing system is not a place to cut corners, the cost of one missed deadline dwarfs the price of reliable software.
Protecting against missed deadlines
Some providers back their docketing with guarantees, which can be worth its weight in risk reduction.
- Ask about deadline guarantees
- Check their rule-update process
- Verify audit trails exist