Knowledge Management for Fostering Biostatistical Collaboration within a Research Network: The RTRN Case Study

Jae Eun Lee, Jung Hye Sung, Daniel Sarpong, Jimmy T. Efird, Paul B. Tchounwou, Elizabeth Ofili and Keith Norris
Additional contact information
Jae Eun Lee: Research Centers in Minority Institutions Translational Research Network Data Coordinating Center, Mississippi e-Center, Jackson State University, 1230 Raymond Rd., Jackson, MS 39204, USA
Jung Hye Sung: Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, College of Public Services, Jackson State University, 350 W. Woodrow Wilson Drive Jackson Medical Mall, Suite 301, Jackson, MS 39213, USA
Daniel Sarpong: Center for Minority Health and Health Disparities Research and Education, Xavier University, 1 Drexel Drive, New Orleans, LA 70125, USA
Jimmy T. Efird: Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics (CCEB), School of Medicine and Public Health, the University of Newcastle (UoN), Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
Paul B. Tchounwou: Research Centers in Minority Institutions Translational Research Network Data Coordinating Center, Mississippi e-Center, Jackson State University, 1230 Raymond Rd., Jackson, MS 39204, USA
Elizabeth Ofili: Clinical Research Center & Clinical and Translational Research, Morehouse School of Medicine, 720 Westview Drive, Atlanta, GA 30310, USA
Keith Norris: Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA, 911 Broxton Ave, Room 103, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA

IJERPH, 2018, vol. 15, issue 11, 1-13

Abstract: Purpose : While the intellectual and scientific rationale for research collaboration has been articulated, a paucity of information is available on a strategic approach to facilitate the collaboration within a research network designed to reduce health disparities. This study aimed to (1) develop a conceptual model to facilitate collaboration among biostatisticians in a research network; (2) describe collaborative engagement performed by the Network’s Data Coordinating Center (DCC); and (3) discuss potential challenges and opportunities in engaging the collaboration. Methods : Key components of the strategic approach will be developed through a systematic literature review. The Network’s initiatives for the biostatistical collaboration will be described in the areas of infrastructure, expertise and knowledge management and experiential lessons will be discussed. Results : Components of the strategic approach model included three Ps (people, processes and programs) which were integrated into expert management, infrastructure management and knowledge management, respectively. Ongoing initiatives for collaboration with non-DCC biostatisticians included both web-based and face-to-face interaction approaches: Network’s biostatistical capacities and needs assessment, webinar statistical seminars, mobile statistical workshop and clinics, adjunct appointment program, one-on-one consulting, and on-site workshop. The outreach program, as a face-to-face interaction approach, especially resulted in a useful tool for expertise management and needs assessment as well as knowledge exchange. Conclusions : Although fostering a partnered research culture, sustaining senior management commitment and ongoing monitoring are a challenge for this collaborative engagement, the proposed strategies centrally performed by the DCC may be useful in accelerating the pace and enhancing the quality of the scientific outcomes within a multidisciplinary clinical and translational research network.

Keywords: strategic approach; research collaboration; knowledge management; research network; capacity building; RTRN (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2018
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