When discussing strategy and growth projections with my Clinical Data Management network – it often returns to a conversation about their experiences last year. 2020 and the synonymous COVID pandemic, confronted every avenue of the life science industry with a plethora of challenges. Clinical Data especially felt the demand for accelerated trials for COVID vaccines, often at the expense of delaying other trials forcing adaptation.
The results? Across the landscape, there has been a newfound fervour around AI – which previously had been considered unorthodox. This rapid development, has generated much excitement amongst my clients, a milestone in the progression in data science. I attended the SCDM Conference “Biggest Game Changers” in January and my main takeaway was how AI, and machine learning is revolutionising the industry – transforming how clinical evidence is produced. This is alongside the fact 54% of all active clinical trials are monitored remotely. Thus, for CRO’s and sponsors alike, the transformation from site-based research to fully decentralised trials is underway. As decentralised clinical trials become an increasingly viable option, data managers cross-functional relationship with biostatisticians are evolving concerning how data will be provided and subsequently analysed and modelled.
After speaking to Directors of Data management and senior heads in the CDM space, there is a wide consensus that ensuring data quality and consistency is of paramount going into 2021. This combined with the rapid transformation of the industry has created a golden opportunity for Clinical Data Management – that is not without an understandable amount of anxiety. Mobile health devices, Machine Learning, etc. are indeed viable solutions to a fast-changing landscape. However, a roster of talented professionals is the constant baseline that enables CDM to continue its innovative push forwards.
Amidst the anxiety generated, flexible contracting has proven itself to be a sure-fire solution to both business needs and hundreds of CDM professionals worldwide. This is for several reasons that I will explore – referencing the benefits working with Barrington James, and myself particularly.
More than before, a contract data management solution is more efficient than ever before. The switch to remote working has blessed business with the opportunity to take on seasoned consultants and Subject Matter Experts from across the United States, addressing specific and urgent needs within their Data Management processes. For consistent demands in a businesses workload, these contractors are available on Full Time Equivalent contracts working 40+ hours per week – but crucially sitting below headcount, and easing the pressure on budget. Conversely, the smaller businesses in my network often benefit the most from an ad-hoc consultant, a shrewd professional who is committed to the business as-and-when needed. There is no commitment for consistent hours, and the needs in the business are met.
So why work with Barrington James? With over 18 years of staffing experience in the life science across the globe, working with small-large sponsors, CRO’s, and consultancies, we have a strong history of building out Biometric and CDM teams, as well as key build senor hires. Furthermore we attend over 40 industry conferences across several continents, which year on year develops a deeper network. I myself have built from the ground up a portfolio of superb consultants and contractors within CDM and Biometrics. Many are not actively looking for their next opportunity, “under the radar” of many high-street recruiters who lack the market awareness I possess. The benefit therefore is that your team will be supplemented by the best in the business, giving you the resources to edge your competitors, exceed your targets and timelines, and meet the demands in a dynamic area of Clinical research and development.
For further detail about how contractors can fit into your teams, or for those looking for flexible contract employment – do not hesitate to connect with Tom Newland and get in touch.
