Intellectual Property Office: Making trade mark registration easier
See how FormBuilder has helped other organisations improve their customer experience, streamline internal processes, and save money on IT development.
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The challenge
Every year, the Intellectual Property Office of New Zealand (IPONZ) receives around 15,500 trade mark applications.
But many small businesses were not finishing the application process. Some chose to pay lawyers or third-party providers because they felt unsure about applying on their own.
IPONZ wanted to make trade mark registration clear and easier. Their goal was to help small business owners submit strong applications the first time, without needing professional help.
The solution
IPONZ worked with the FormBuilder team to build a guided, easy-to-use application form using FormBuilder. The form uses plain English, clear help text, and examples tailored to small business users.
Straightforward applications now have fewer steps. The form also connects directly to IPONZ’s case management system through an Application Programming Interface (API) on the Business Connect platform.
IPONZ tested the form with customers, reviewed analytics, and made quick changes to improve the experience.
Customer impact
- Greater accessibility: Small businesses now have a guided, online form they can complete with confidence.
- Improved success rates: Over 66% of applications are now successful on the first attempt.
- Reduced reliance on professional services: Businesses save time and money.
- Ongoing improvements: IPONZ uses data and feedback to keep refining the form.
- Seamless integration: API ensures data flows smoothly between Business Connect and IPONZ systems.
Why it matters
IPONZ’s experience shows how FormBuilder helps agencies deliver services that are inclusive, easy to use and designed for small businesses.
“Business Connect is helping IPONZ give businesses a simplified, guided online application for the registration of a straightforward trade mark. It means they can confidently apply for a trade mark themselves and save time and money.”
Rob Garrett, Business Systems Manager, IPONZ
How FormBuilder can help you
If your team is dealing with PDF forms, busy inboxes, high customer support needs, or fragmented data, we can help.
- Join a FormBuilder webinar to see how the builder works and explore hosting and data options.
- Email us to talk about a pilot or discuss your integration needs.