Fast-moving tech.

Terrifio, an IP and legal software service provider, has launched its Markr system, an online virtual patent marking tool that automates repetitive tasks and maintains a litigation-ready audit trail. Markr helps companies accurately record and post their patents online, making VPM evidence creation for patent enforcement and litigation a thing of the past.

Markr users can build a database of their pending applications, published applications, and issued patents and link each with associated products. Once the database is completed, users can download a fully populated VPM Notice Page that is easily posted to a dedicated VPM URL on their website. They can then finalize the VPM requirements by adding the VPM link to online product information and labels on associated products. Updates to the VPM Notice Page can be made as new patent applications are filed or on a periodic schedule.

Jim Gastle, co-founder of Markr, explains that VPM can be a valuable addition to any tech company’s IP program and its proactive processes. “With a chance to participate in the early access program, businesses can test the potential of virtual patent marking for their business at no cost. Once an active VPM program foundation is established, companies have the security of knowing that potential infringers have clear and up-to-date constructive notice.”

Virtual patent marking offers many benefits over traditional patent marking, the most obvious being saving considerable time and expense as the patent owner no longer needs to individually manage the minutia of placing specific patent information on a specific version of products and/ or packaging. It also eliminates the need for expensive updates. Instead, it can be updated via the online VPM link on demand.

Gastle, who has 25 years of experience as a Registered Patent Agent in Canada, and working closely with U.S. patent attorneys, was surprised that while some of the top global proprietary product brand firms had a VPM page, the vast majority do not. Without a VPM program, companies may be eroding considerable value and leverage in damages provided by an early constructive notice date. Without such notice, these businesses may be self-limiting the potential damages to the time period starting from the date of sending an actual notice letter, rather than potentially capitalizing on up to a full six-year period preceding the filing of a complaint, potentially leading to a significant loss in money damages.

Markr presents a compelling proposition to efficiently build a marking baseline, maintain traceable records, and update information in real-time. It can be used as a standalone platform, and following the initial free early access period, the pricing for Markr will be linked to various usage packages similar to other Software as a Service (SaaS) pricing models.

Grant Peters, partner, Barnes & Thornburg LLP, comments that some patent owners may not use virtual patent marking due to unfamiliarity with the process and the perceived effort required to establish a baseline. He believes that there is value in virtual patent marking, but unlocking it requires early, proper, traceable patent marking. Markr can help businesses achieve this efficiently, making VPM accessible to a wider audience.

In conclusion, Terrifio’s Markr system is an innovative online virtual patent marking tool that can help businesses save time and money. It allows patent owners to accurately record and post their patents online, eliminating the need for expensive updates. With VPM, businesses can establish timely, early constructive notice