The office date starting the ticking clock for reply is the date the action is posted. If you don't view the OA in seven days, a courtesy post card reminder is sent.

The program is limited to office actions. Paper mailings will still be sent from the following agency areas: Office of Initial Patent Examination (snafus before an office action), petitions, PCT, appeals, publications, interferences, and re-examination.

The pilot program is slated to last six months. Expect this to be a winner.

Here's the full announcement.

If you are not already using EFS to electronically file applications, amendments, replies, appeals, and what-not, get with the program.