THE Jamaica Intellectual Property Office (JIPO) is currently automating its trademark registration process, in an effort to make it easier for JIPO's staff and clients to record business trademarks.

A trademark is any sign that distinguishes the goods or services of one undertaking, such as a business entity or company, from another.

The sign must be distinctive and capable of identifying certain goods or services as produced, or provided by a specific person or business entity.

Registration of a mark requires a thorough search by JIPO to ensure there is none similar or identical, according to Edward Brightley, manager for trademarks, designs and geographical indication.
Such searches are now done manually, taking anywhere from "1 to 4 hours or even days."

Automation is expected to cut the search to 15 minutes.
All registered trademarks are now being transferred from a paper-based registry to an electronic database, to be completed by early 2006.

The system will also allow online searches by clients "from any computer anywhere," said Brightley.
Trademark application and registration forms are available free at www.jipo.gov.jm.

Once a trademark is registered, legal notices advising the public are required. The publication is usually in the Jamaica Gazette, allowing the opportunity for comment or objection if the trademark is considered too close a replica of an existing mark, or is construed as immoral.

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