Dear Colleagues,

Today, I'm officially launching our new agency-wide Strategic Plan
(2007-2012) that will provide a roadmap for the next five years. The
plan describes what our goals are and how we plan to reach them to
fulfill our vision of leading the world in intellectual property
protection and policy.

In particular, we want to build on the many successes we had in 2006 to
continue to improve quality and efficiency in patents and trademarks,
and to improve international IP protection. We also have a new goal,
which is to become an "employer of choice," which would include being an
organization of high performance, clear channels of communication, and
best-in-class employee development resources. Whether you review patent
or trademark applications, develop software, or oversee contracts, you
play a key role in helping the USPTO achieve our strategic goals. You
are why the USPTO is successful.

We began the strategic planning process more than a year ago when we
asked you and our external stakeholders for your perspectives and ideas.
Thanks to all of you who responded with suggestions through the
Strategic Plan Feedback Box and the many focus sessions we held.

As an agency, we must have a strategic plan that defines where we will
focus our energies and resources to achieve our overarching goals and
vision. Imagine a boat with several rowers, each rowing in a different
direction. Clearly, that boat won't go far. Our agency faces many
challenges, and we need all of us moving in the same direction, toward
the same vision, if we expect to meet our challenges.

And we will continue to seek input from you. Thank you for all that you
are doing and will do in the future to help us lead the world in
intellectual property protection and policy.

Sincerely,

Jon Dudas
 

Here is a brochure of the strategic plan, and a copy of the USPTO 2007-2012 Strategic Plan.