MODULE 3 · LESSON 3 / 4
Understanding warnings
5 min read
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A warning is not an error
Stratensight displays warnings when it detects limitations in the analysis data. These are transparency signals, not errors. The analysis is still valid — the warning tells you which aspects to interpret with caution.
Core principle: A system that hides its limitations is less trustworthy than one that communicates them transparently. Warnings make you a better analyst by showing exactly where the signal is strong and where it needs additional verification.
The 3 main Explorer warnings
Academic source fallback
What it means: The CPC mapping reached fallback level 5. The technology perimeter may be broader than intended.
What it does NOT mean: The analysis is invalid or based on non-patent data.
Action: Review the CPC codes in the Source Coverage card. Consider narrowing the query or using Boolean mode for precise control.
EPO cap (2,000 patents)
What it means: The EPO open data source returned the maximum 2,000 patents. The actual patent count for this technology may be higher.
What it does NOT mean: Only 2,000 patents exist for this technology.
Action: For high-volume technologies, upload a premium export from Derwent or PatSnap to get the complete dataset.
Partial coverage
What it means: Some geographic regions or time periods have incomplete data. The dataset may not represent the full global picture.
What it does NOT mean: The analysis is wrong or unreliable for covered regions.
Action: Check which regions are affected. If the gap matters for your question (e.g., you need CN coverage), supplement with premium data.
How to read warnings in practice
When you see a warning in an Explorer analysis, follow this 3-step process:
Read the warning text
Understand what specific limitation was detected.
Assess relevance
Does this limitation affect the specific question you are trying to answer?
Decide on action
If relevant: refine the query, upload premium data, or note the limitation in your interpretation.
Key takeaways
- Warnings are transparency signals, not errors — the analysis is still valid.
- Three main warnings: academic fallback, EPO cap (2,000), and partial coverage.
- Warnings help you interpret results correctly by showing where caution is needed.
- Warnings directly influence the Intelligence Grade™ calculation.
QUIZ DE VALIDATION
1. What does the 'Academic source fallback' warning mean?
2. The EPO cap warning (2,000 patents) indicates that:
3. A warning is NOT:
4. When you see a 'partial coverage' warning, what should you do?
5. How do warnings affect the Intelligence Grade™?