Current awareness searching in Derwent World Patents Index

This search tip explains how to create automated current awareness searches.

Do you run the same search within Derwent World Patents Index (WPI) on a regular basis by logging in and executing the search manually?

How can you be sure you don't miss documents that enter the file when you are out of the office or are too busy to execute a search?

How can you ensure timely delivery of search results to yourself or your customers irrespective of your workload?

The answer to all these questions is the automatic current awareness search feature available within Derwent WPI on STN, Dialog and Questel.Orbit termed an SDI (Selective Dissemination of Information) - also known as an Alert or a Profile. This tip explains how these automatic searches work, and how to set one up for yourself. Please contact our Help Desk if you would like any additional information or help.

What is an SDI/Alert/Profile?
How much does an SDI cost?
How can an SDI help me?
Setting up an SDI: STN
Setting up an SDI: Dialog
Setting up an SDI: Questel.Orbit

What is an SDI/Alert/Profile?
An SDI, Alert or Profile is a search query that is set-up to run automatically at a specified frequency. Once the SDI search has been saved, it is no longer necessary to re-enter this specific query again. The search will run as required at the designated frequency until cancelled and the results can be delivered in a variety of ways such as through the online host system or offline via e-mail, fax or postal delivery.

It is currently possible to choose between two SDI frequencies within Derwent WPI. These are "every update" or the recently introduced "calendar month" option. If you specify the "every update" option when creating your SDI, your search will be run every time Derwent WPI is updated. Any records matching your search profile will then be delivered to you via your chosen delivery medium. If you specify the "every month" option the same principle applies except that your search will only be run every calendar month.

How much does an SDI cost?
A set fee is charged each time that the SDI is executed. You will also then be charged for the documents delivered to you according to the display format and delivery option you chose.

How can an SDI help me?
As an SDI is completely automatic it will save you both time and money. It can for example be used to survey the state of the art and perhaps inspire new ideas or solutions to problems or to trace the development of technology. It is also an invaluable method for identifying competitors and their activities and for protecting your patent portfolio from infringements.

For further assistance please contact your local Derwent Help Desk.