Quality dashboard: quarterly update
Today the European Patent Office (EPO) updated its Quality dashboard to reflect quality audit figures from the first quarter of 2026.
Search KPIs
The latest figures based on the 24-month rolling average confirmed the high level of quality for search, with 93.5% of audited searches having no findings related to novelty, inventive step or added subject-matter.
Examination KPIs
The positive trend identified in the previous two quarters continues, as 89.5% of audited grants had no findings potentially affecting their validity, meaning no findings related to novelty, inventive step or added subject-matter in the independent claims.
Notably, findings related to added subject-matter decreased further from 4.6% to 3.9%, reflecting the impact of quality measures that have been implemented across our operational teams.
More on the Quality dashboard
Launched in March 2024, the Quality dashboard fosters transparency by delivering regular updates on quality standards and user satisfaction. By presenting essential key performance indicators (KPIs), it provides stakeholders with a clear and comprehensive overview of quality in the EPO’s patent granting process. The dashboard builds on the annual Quality Action Plan, which defines targeted actions aimed at enhancing the quality of the EPO’s products and services.
