The WIPO IP Office Suite is developed and owned by WIPO a=
nd is offered to IP offices of WIPO member states free of charge as part of=
WIPO=E2=80=99s technical assistance services. Before starting a proj=
ect, WIPO and the IP Office (or responsible Ministry) sign a cooperation ag=
reement that sets out the shared responsibility for implementation, terms a=
nd conditions for the use of WIPO software systems, confidentiality and oth=
er provisions.
Projects are organized according to a shared responsibili=
ty model, with the aim of assisting IP offices to increase their capacities=
as much as possible using WIPO software solutions and to create projects w=
ith long-term sustainability.
Projects are initiated based on a request by the IP offic=
e concerned. This is followed by an assessment of the needs, capabilities a=
nd suitability of WIPO software solutions for the IP offices. If both parti=
es agree to initiate the project, a project plan is created to clarify the =
roles and responsibilities, resource requirements and expected outcomes.&nb=
sp; The assessment process covers the critical pre-requisites for the proje=
ct to succeed, as described below:
- Financial: availability of capital and operating budge=
t to start and maintain the project. Capital investment may be required up =
front for IT infrastructure and equipment while operating expenses are typi=
cally required for upgrades, spare parts=E2=80=A6etc.
- Legislation: IP laws and regulations should be in plac=
e and minimum functioning IPO organization with respective staff should be =
present. For online services, an appropriate legislative framework ne=
eds to be in place (electronic communications law, or similar).
- Information Technologies: depending on the project and=
systems to be deployed, the appropriate hardware, networking, security and=
physical infrastructure need to be in place. The need for good internet co=
nnectivity has become now a priority so that offices can provide online ser=
vices and engage in remote support and training activities.
- Human Resources: Local IT personnel for the day-to-day=
support of systems and infrastructure. WIPO has a profile of skills needed=
for local administrators who should basically have knowledge of IT and net=
work administration activities.
- Stability: stable management and low turn-over of staf=
f and local IT resources are important for project continuity.
- Cooperation with WIPO: The conclusion of the coo=
peration agreement prior to commencing the project.