In 2022, too, we intensely worked on our strategy process. We completed some important measures with success, coming closer to the achievement of our strategic goals.

For example, in our fields of action “Products and services” and “Staff”, we made great progress with regard to the following measures:

Electronic administrative work: This project paves the way for the introduction of the federal e-file (E-Akte Bund) at the DPMA as the basis for electronic administrative work not relating to the IP areas. We will implement our cloud-based approach to electronic file keeping and case management in a pilot project and then successively roll out electronic administrative work across the DPMA. This means that, in the future, the fulfilment of our administrative tasks will also be almost completely paperless and digital.

Electronic IP case file for designs: Based on the long positive experience gained with respect to patents, utility models and trade marks, we are currently working on the provision of a fully electronic process-oriented case file processing system for designs as well. In the design area, we will then offer our customers digital interfaces, e.g. for applications and the submission of additional documents. We use the existing horizontal services on the basis of the existing service-oriented architecture.

Electronic communication with external parties: In the future, we will provide an electronic communication platform as part of a web conference with external participants. The platform will enable quick and efficient communication both with customers and with our cooperation partners. There are particular challenges to data protection and data security. In the patent area, video hearings have been possible since mid-2022. For a detailed report on this project, please see the next article.

We were also able to develop our process and quality management systems. We will continue building on an intense dialogue with our users in order to continuously improve our services and processes. Alongside established boards such as our User Advisory Council, we also conduct customer surveys and exchange information and views directly with our customers in order to identify their needs and respond to them.

The field of action “Staff” focused, among other things, on shaping an attractive and modern working environment. With the possibility of fully electronic case file processing, we can offer our staff a considerable degree of flexibility in doing telework and mobile work. Additionally, we are testing ways to ensure that our staff are regularly present in the office in order to continue the traditionally strong bonds among DPMA staff. For a detailed report on the DPMA working world, please see here.

In view of the demographic change, the DPMA still focuses on knowledge management. We have set up a coordination unit to organise the work on knowledge management at the DPMA.

As a customer-oriented, process-oriented and digital authority, we will continue providing our applicants and our partners with modern and efficient high-quality services in the future.