Patent indicators are used to map aspects of the innovative performance and technological progress of countries, regions or certain specific domains and technology fields. The use of patent statistics for monitoring developments in the field of science and technology has been expanding rapidly over the recent past. Not only has the use of patents increased but also the diversity and relevance of these indicators have progressed.

The OECD has developed new and more sophisticated indicators, notably on patent families, citations, etc. Updated series (July 2011) are provided in OECD.Stat.