russjourn

Now we turn to Section V of Sen. Barack Obama's five-section 2008 technology policy position paper. The paper is entitled: Barack Obama: Connecting and Empowering All Americans Through Technology and Innovation.

Section III outlines Obama's vision for how to "Improve America's Competitiveness."

Much of this section is policy-related. We are urged to invest in the sciences, reform immigration by not closing the door on immigrants who get educated in the U.. to stay and work here, to crack down on piracy of intellectual property abroad and at home.

The most forthright of Obama's proposals in this section is a plea to Reform the Patent System. He, as do I, agree the current Patent laws stifle innovation by allowing patent trolls to gum up the process.

Here's what Sen. Obama would like to see in terms of Patent reform:

"A system that produces timely, high-quality patents is essential for global competitiveness in the 21st century.  By improving predictability and clarity in our patent system, we will help foster an environment that encourages innovation. Giving the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO) the resources to improve patent quality and opening up the patent process to citizen review will reduce the uncertainty and wasteful litigation that is currently a significant drag on innovation.  

"With better informational resources, the Patent and Trademark Office could offer patent applicants who know they have significant inventions the option of a rigorous and public peer review that would produce a "gold-plated" patent much less vulnerable to court challenge.  Where dubious patents are being asserted, the PTO could conduct low-cost, timely administrative proceedings to determine patent validity.  As president, Barack Obama will ensure that our patent laws protect legitimate rights while not stifling innovation and collaboration."

Getting this right would require speedy yet comprehensive hiring and training of lots more Patent examiners. One suggestion I think might work would be to solicit at least a few colleges and/or universities to offer a degree program- or at least a concentration in- Patent Examination.

What do you think of that idea, readers?