www.wipo.int


1 Sep 2004

What is it?
The website of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), which aims to use IP as an engine for economic development.

Who is it for?
WIPO members and also non-members looking to learn more about IP issues.

What information does it contain?
The IP issue is dealt with here in exhaustive detail. There are four sections. The first deals with WIPO itself — what it does, who it is for and so on. The second part focuses on IP: the different types and any issues currently arising. The third, labelled news and information, focuses on recent developments in the IP area and relevant press coverage. The final section lists the services available from WIPO, which include the domain-name resolution service offered by the WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Centre in Geneva, the administration of an international system for filing and processing international patent applications, and helping developing countries to establish and update IP systems.

How does it look?
A stylised, multicolour globe divided into four quadrants adorns the homepage. Roll over each section and up pops a box showing its contents. Some users will hate it, others will like it. Apart from English, the site is available in five other languages: Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian and Spanish.

Any quibbles?
The press room is not the best we’ve seen, but this won’t worry most visitors.

The verdict?
For those in any doubt about the breadth and complexity of IP issues, this site would be well worth a visit.

By Brian Skelly