While SaaS solutions are convenient and user-friendly, some organisations may perceive risks related to data transmission or potential vulnerabilities in third-party systems, although reputable providers minimise these risks with advanced security measures. In addition to SaaS tools, other approaches to patent drafting include on-premise solutions, plug-and-play tools, and hybrid models.
On-premise solutions involve installing AI software directly on an organisation’s servers. This ensures that all data processing and storage occur internally, offering the highest level of security. However, these solutions are costly, with mid- to high-five-figure annual expenses, and they require long-term commitments to specific AI providers.
Plug-and-Play tools are designed to integrate into existing programs, such as Microsoft Word, through plugins. These tools balance local and external processing, providing flexibility and ease of use at a lower cost. However, their patent drafting capabilities are generally less sophisticated than professional on-premise solutions.
Cloud-based SaaS tools, as covered in this blog, offer a highly accessible and scalable option. They are ideal for organisations that prioritise ease of use and integration with minimal IT requirements. The five tools discussed below exemplify the strengths and limitations of the SaaS model in patent drafting, offering varied features and levels of functionality to meet different user needs.
Overview of some commonly-used SaaS patent drafting tools
- Strengths: A highly capable patent drafting tool, leveraging advanced language models (LLMs) for detailed and nuanced outputs.
- Limitations: Best suited for experienced users who are skilled in crafting precise and effective LLM prompts.
- Challenges: Low acceptance among IT and Compliance departments, which hindesr adoption in many organisations.
- Strengths: Similar capabilities to ChatGPT but operates at a lower level of advancement.
- Strength in adoption: Widely accepted by IT and Compliance departments, making it easier to integrate into existing workflows.
- Limitations: Feels less mature in terms of functionality and features compared to ChatGPT.
- Strengths: A robust tool often favoured by European patent practitioners in the area of mechanical and electrical engineering. Designed to simplify workflows and reduce reliance on LLM prompts.
- Adoption benefits: High acceptance among IT and Compliance departments, facilitating organisational use.
- User interface: Requires a methodical and structured approach to input data, which benefits users new to AI patent drafting. Effective for training purposes and for those not seeking deep technical expertise in LLM prompting.
- Strengths: A powerful tool with a strong focus on user control over AI text generation. Includes a built-in figures editor.
- Background: Primarily US-based, but recently offering features tailored to the needs of the markets outside the US.
- Strengths: A comprehensive tool with a strong focus on the needs of the US market. Capable of generating detailed and extensive patent drafts.
- Challenges: Users should be prepared to thoroughly review and refine lengthy patent drafts.
Next steps
- FICPI members may log into the website to read Martin’s in-depth article in The FICPI Journal (Third Issue). “The revolution in the patent industry with AI-assisted drafting”, discusses current developments, challenges, and future prospects in this field, as well as the benefits of running several AI tools in parallel, costs, and risks in using cloud-based software. https://ficpi.link/journal
- Join us at the FICPI World Congress in Naples, Italy, from 12-17 October 2025.
- Consider getting involved with FICPI’s Study & Work groups such as CET 6 (Software, High Tech and Computer-Related Issues)
FICPI’s view
FICPI uniquely combines education and advocacy on topics around patents and trade marks, with a focus on developing the professional excellence of its individual members. FICPI Forums, Congress, committees and meetings are opportunities to gather insights from the international IP attorney community on any issue, whether it be practice-related or topics of patent and trade mark law.