Questions to Ask Vendors Before You Buy Trademark Docketing Software
Alt Legal Team | August 08, 2025
Choosing trademark docketing software is a big decision that can have a lasting impact on your legal team’s productivity, accuracy, and peace of mind. With so many platforms claiming to simplify IP management, it’s essential to ask the right questions before committing to a solution.
To help guide your evaluation, here are 10 essential questions to ask any trademark docketing software vendor—along with insights into how Alt Legal answers each one.
1. Is the software specifically designed for trademark docketing?
Why it matters:
Some docketing systems were originally built for patents or litigation, and trademarks were added later as an afterthought. These platforms may lack the features and workflows trademark professionals actually need.
Alt Legal’s answer:
Yes. Alt Legal was purpose-built for trademark professionals. Every feature—automation, reports, workflows, and even terminology—is designed specifically for managing your global trademark portfolio.
2. How are deadlines generated and updated?
Why it matters:
Manually calculating and updating deadlines is time-consuming and error-prone. The best docketing systems should automate this process to minimize risk.
Alt Legal’s answer:
Alt Legal automatically calculates and updates deadlines using data synced directly from the USPTO and other trademark offices. You’ll receive proactive reminders, so your team never misses a deadline.
3. How accurate and up-to-date is the data in the system?
Why it matters:
Your docket is only as reliable as the data it contains. If deadlines, statuses, or filing information are outdated or inaccurate, it can result in missed deadlines or costly mistakes.
Alt Legal’s answer:
Alt Legal pulls trademark data directly from official sources like the USPTO and CIPO, and updates records in real time. You don’t have to rely on manual entry or periodic updates—your data stays current automatically.
4. How easy is it for my team to learn and use the software?
Why it matters:
If your docketing software is difficult to use, your team may resist adopting it—leading to inconsistent usage and increased risk.
Alt Legal’s answer:
Alt Legal is consistently praised for its intuitive interface and easy onboarding. Most users are up and running within days, not weeks, with minimal training required. The clean, modern design makes it simple for anyone to use, regardless of technical skill. Plus, Alt Legal provides free, personalized training at any point during your subscription so you can train new employees or learn advanced skills to make the most of your subscription.
5. What kind of support is available?
Why it matters:
Responsive, knowledgeable support is crucial—especially when you’re dealing with sensitive IP deadlines. You need fast answers from people who understand trademark law.
Alt Legal’s answer:
Alt Legal offers industry-leading customer support from in-house IP experts. Support is included in every subscription—no extra fees or outsourced call centers. Whether you’re onboarding or need help with a specific matter, real people are ready to assist. Access our knowledgeable, friendly support team anytime via live chat, email, or phone, and receive a prompt and helpful response.
6. Can the software handle international trademarks and Madrid Protocol filings?
Why it matters:
If your team manages a global trademark portfolio, your docketing software needs to support global workflows and track international deadlines reliably.
Alt Legal’s answer:
Yes. Alt Legal supports global trademark management, including Madrid Protocol filings and international registrations. The platform tracks prosecution and renewal deadlines across jurisdictions, giving you one centralized, reliable view. Alt Legal also provides easy WIPO docketing, allowing you to view your WIPO matters in a centralized control center and manage all designations with ease.
7. What integrations are available with other tools we use?
Why it matters:
Your docketing system shouldn’t operate in a silo. It should integrate with tools your team already uses—like document management systems, email, or practice management software.
Alt Legal’s answer:
Alt Legal integrates with platforms like Microsoft Outlook, Clio, and Google Workspace. The platform also offers an open API, so your team can build custom workflows and sync data across systems as needed.
8. Can I customize reports and workflows?
Why it matters:
Every legal team has unique needs. You should be able to tailor reports, reminders, and workflows to fit your specific practice and clients.
Alt Legal’s answer:
Alt Legal provides flexible, customizable reports and docket views, so you can filter, organize, and export information however you need it. Users can set up automated reminders, client-specific views, and even white-labeled reports for external use.
9. What does onboarding and data migration look like?
Why it matters:
Switching docketing systems can feel daunting. A smooth onboarding and data migration process is essential for continuity and minimal disruption.
Alt Legal’s answer:
Alt Legal provides white-glove onboarding and handles data migration for you—at no extra charge. Their team works closely with yours to ensure a seamless transition, whether you’re migrating from spreadsheets or another docketing system.
10. What are the total costs—upfront and ongoing?
Why it matters:
Some vendors charge extra for training, support, or updates. Make sure you understand the full cost of ownership before signing on.
Alt Legal’s answer:
Alt Legal offers transparent, all-inclusive pricing. There are no surprise fees for support, training, data migration, or updates. You get full access to all features and services under one straightforward subscription.
Final Thoughts
Asking the right questions before selecting trademark docketing software can save your team time, stress, and risk down the road. Whether you’re upgrading from spreadsheets or replacing an outdated platform, it’s worth investing in software that’s intuitive, automated, and built with trademark professionals in mind.
Alt Legal was designed to make trademark docketing effortless. With powerful automation, real-time data, and expert support, it’s the trusted choice for hundreds of legal teams.
Schedule a personalized demo to see how Alt Legal can support your trademark practice.