Examiner: BEKKER, KELLY JO

Analysis

Kelly Jo Bekker examines applications in Art Unit 1781 of Tech Center 1700, where she has 426 resolved cases. The allowance rate pct of 16.7 is exceptionally low, indicating that the vast majority of applications do not result in a patent grant. This 16.7 percent rate suggests a very difficult prosecution environment where rejections are the norm. Additionally, the median days to allowance is 1519, which is one of the longest durations in the USPTO. This 1519-day median reflects a prosecution process that typically lasts an extended period for the few cases that do succeed. With 426 resolved cases, these metrics provide a robust and sobering view of the challenges in Tech Center 1700.

Despite the low baseline, the interview lift pct of 35.4 offers a significant tactical option for practitioners. This 35.4 percent lift indicates that engaging in an interview is a highly effective tactic for improving the chances of success. While the 16.7 percent allowance rate remains a major hurdle, the substantial positive lift suggests that verbal communication can help bridge the gap between examiner and applicant. Given the 1519-day median wait, an early and well-prepared interview may be essential for any applicant hoping to secure a grant in Art Unit 1781. The data underscores that while the environment is challenging, direct engagement is a critical tool for navigating these difficulties. Effectively leveraging the interview process is likely the most reliable way to improve the probability of a favorable outcome.