Automation

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: The reader is advised that the material contained on this page is meant as a summary only! It in no way represents a comprehensive discourse on the topic. The reader must read the current negotiated agreement between USPTO Management and POPA for a thorough and complete understanding of the topic. If there are questions or a need for further assistance, then the reader is also advised to contact their POPA representative or a POPA officer.

POPA is very active in reviewing, commenting on, and actually participating in the development of new search tools and other automated systems and software provided by the USPTO as outlined in the Agreement on Initiatives for a New Millennium.

Currently, POPA has bargaining unit examiners and representatives working with management on several automation projects including Patent File Wrapper (PFW), Patent Application Text Initiative (PATI), and the Patents End to End Program.

POPA has been responsible for negotiating for the provision of dual monitors, high speed group printers, and an individual high-speed printer for each bargaining unit member to make their respective jobs easier.

The POPA Automation Committee is essentially the employee watchdog for automated systems and tools.  The Committee provides input and suggestions in response to new systems and tools.  The current Chair of the Automation Committee is Dr. Pat Duffy who is anxious to hear from examiners with suggestions, comments, and complaints.