Development of the IPC as a search tool

The background to the current concerns about the future of the IPC is outlined. This highlights the rapid growth of the documentation, the increased use of electronic storage of documents, the availability of alternative search tools, and the technical developments in the fields searched. A first suggestion is to scrap the rule on 'last place' allocation of terms, and similar rules, all designed primarily to limit the extent of the paper files. Other suggestions include a number of approaches to improved indexing, e.g., global, deep or light indexing scenarios, as well as 'multiple classification'. These suggestions are predicated upon the expected increased use of computer-held databases and document copies, and the gradual demise of paper files. The paper concludes by examining the 'IPC dilemma'. Thus it is the only major international classification for patents. It is used by nearly 100 patent offices around the world, many of whom could not justify using any other system. It is also the basis for internal classification schemes e.g., at the European and Japanese Patent Offices. However it equally clearly needs major changes to make good use of modern, electronic storage and information retrieval methods. The author concludes that 'if it is not rejuvenated, it will be marginalised'.