Glossary

Patent analyst search

A patent analyst search is a detailed investigation conducted by expert analysts to identify existing patents and scientific literature related to a new invention. It determines whether an innovation is novel and potentially patentable before formal filing.

Description

Patent analyst searches combine human expertise with specialized databases and tools to assess the originality of an invention. Analysts review published patents, applications and non-patent literature to identify any prior art that could affect patentability.

Unlike automated keyword searches, an analyst search applies linguistic, technical and legal reasoning to interpret concepts, synonyms and classifications across multiple jurisdictions. This insight helps inventors, R&D teams and legal departments make strategic decisions about whether to file, refine or abandon a patent application. RWS’s patent analyst searches are performed by multilingual Subject-matter experts (SMEs) supported by advanced search technology and access to one of the largest patent and scientific literature databases in the world.

Example use cases

  • Novelty: Determine whether an invention is new and patentable.
  • Preparation: Strengthen claims and specifications before submission.
  • FTO: Identify overlapping technologies that could limit market entry.
  • Intelligence: Track innovation trends and competitor portfolios.
  • Management: Assess existing patents for relevance or renewal decisions.

Key benefits

Accuracy
Expert analysts interpret complex technical and linguistic nuances.
Clarity
Provides clear, actionable reports tailored to client objectives.
Efficiency
Reduces risk of rejected filings or duplicated innovation.
Insight
Reveals competitive activity and emerging technology directions.
Insight
Supports informed patent filing and business strategy decisions.

RWS perspective

At RWS, every patent analyst search combines the precision of technology with the insight of human expertise. Our analysts use advanced databases and proprietary tools to uncover and interpret prior art across global jurisdictions.

Each report is reviewed and contextualized by subject-matter experts – from engineering and biotechnology to software and pharmaceuticals – ensuring results are relevant and practical. Working in tandem with our patent translation, filing and renewal teams, our analyst searches form a critical part of a comprehensive IP strategy. They help organizations protect innovation, allocate R&D investment effectively and strengthen their competitive position in the global marketplace.