Skilling Teams for the Future of Clinical Data Science

Clinical trial complexity is rapidly escalating, and clinical research teams must evolve to keep pace. With new technologies and processes being introduced seemingly every day, clinical data leaders need to focus on how to equip their teams with the right skills and mindset for a future state of risk-based approaches, integrated AI/ML capabilities, and an ever-growing variety of data sources. These capabilities will be essential to make the shift from traditional clinical data management approaches to a clinical data science framework that reflects the realities and meets the challenges of the modern clinical trial landscape.

In this blog we highlight some of the key focus areas across technical and soft skills that will be required as clinical data leaders work to develop and upskill their functions against this backdrop of transformation.

Learning to Leverage More Advanced Technologies

With the volume and variety of data increasing, data managers need to be adept at using advanced analytics tools. These tools, often powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), enable the efficient processing and analysis of large datasets. Platforms like elluminate® offer real-time integration and analysis, facilitating faster and more accurate data insights.

Understanding New Data Collection Methodologies

Traditional methods of data collection are being supplemented by new technologies such as wearables, remote monitoring devices, and various decentralized clinical trial (DCT) approaches. These methodologies are designed to make data collection more accessible, convenient, and comfortable for patients, while also expanding the amount of data collected. Data managers must develop solid understandings of these approaches to ensure accurate and comprehensive data collection and maximize the value of the data.

Soft Skills

As clinical trials become increasingly complex, the ability for data managers to collaborate effectively with other functions is paramount. Strong collaborative skills are essential for ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned and working towards common objectives. In the face of intricate trial designs and vast amounts of data, data managers must communicate seamlessly with clinical programmers, statisticians, and other team members to anticipate and address potential issues proactively. This collaboration fosters a comprehensive understanding of the study’s needs and allows for the integration of diverse expertise, ultimately leading to more efficient processes and higher-quality outcomes. With greater complexity, data management professionals need to cultivate critical thinking andleadership skills, and effectively navigate ambiguity and change.

Expanding Domain Knowledge and Building Project Management Competencies

In its topic brief, ‘The CDM Role Revolution’, the Society for Clinical Data Management (SCDM) explored an expanded range of core competencies and foundational knowledge that data managers will need to develop as we evolve towards a clinical data science framework. For example, in the context of greater operational complexity, project management and vendor oversight capabilities are increasingly essential. At the same time, developing deep therapeutic knowledge and mastering statistical concepts will allow data managers to support the trajectory towards innovative trial designs such as master protocols and adaptive approaches.

The Benefits of Continuous Skill Enhancement

There are many benefits to developing a strong and sustained focus on skills enhancement, including:

• Improved Data Quality and Integrity: With enhanced skills and better collaboration, the chances of inconsistencies are significantly reduced, resulting in more reliable data. By integrating advanced technologies and AI/ML capabilities, teams will be able to surface anomalies faster and focus on the critical data that matters, and reduce the time to quality data.
• Cross-functional Skill Sharing: Data managers gain valuable insights that can then be shared and reciprocated through their interactions with other functions. This serves to amplify skill building initiatives across teams, allowing multiple stakeholders to better grasp advanced methodologies and/or technologies.
• Faster Decision-Making: Through targeted training programs, workshops, and hands-on experiences, data managers can stay abreast of the latest technologies and methodologies. This proactive approach equips them with the tools and confidence needed to process and analyze data more efficiently. As a result, data managers can identify trends, anomalies, and insights more swiftly, leading to faster, more informed decision-making.
• Equipping for the Future State: Trial complexity is only going to increase, and skills development is a core part of the transformation needed for the future state. Adaptability, and a culture of ongoing learning will position teams to gain strategic advantage from the opportunities ahead.

The development of essential skills among clinical data management teams is becoming increasingly mission critical as the industry grapples with the growing complexity of clinical trials. By improving their proficiency in advanced analytics tools, understanding new data collection methodologies, and fostering effective collaboration across functions, study teams can ensure a cohesive approach that benefits all stakeholders. Additionally, prioritizing and enhancing their collaborative skills will help data managers to navigate the complexities of modern trials more effectively. Clinical data leaders, through fostering continuous skill enhancement, can accomplish the twin objectives of more efficiently handling the current state and confidently preparing for the future.

To learn how the eClinical Solutions team have helped clients overcome their complex trial challenges through elluminate and Biometrics Services, download our recent eBook.