15.38. The HKPC also performs searches for clients in industry. It has access to 300 databases including two major providers of patent information - INPADOC and the World Patent Index. They have also introduced some CDROM technology, for example for access to the US Patents gazette.
15.39.
Over the years the HKPC has handled a growing number of requests for
patents searches:
Year
1983/84
1984/85
1985/86
1986/87
1987/88
1988/89
1989/90
1990/91
1991/92
Number of requests handled
25
20022
8
23
25
50
98
105
91
188
15.40.
In 1988 an information expert from the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) visited the HKPC on a study mission. An outline of his terms of reference, evaluation and recommendations are set out at the end of this chapter.
15.41. Many of the fundamental changes in technology discussed above have taken place since his report was prepared and this must be taken into account when considering the recommendations.
Publicity of value of technical information
15.42. We know of no studies which have assessed the level of knowledge in Hong Kong of the value and use of technical information. The impression we have is that knowledge about technical information is less sophisticated here than in many countries which compete with Hong Kong. We recognize the importance to Hong Kong of a satisfactory level of knowledge in industry of the value of technical information. The availability of technical information is not sufficient. It must be used.
Summary
15.43.
We consider that there should be facilities in Hong Kong which could provide a more advanced level of technical information services than is currently available. Such facilities should provide for patent and non patent information including library facilities as well as the more advanced electronic facilities referred to in this chapter. In addition trained personnel should be available to assist users to make the optimum use of such technical information. We recognise, in view of the vast body of technical information that is available and costs involved, that it may be necessary, initially, to tailor the technical information to Hong Kong's specific requirements. A survey of the requirements of the potential users of an information centre could be conducted to assess this.
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