It’s no secret that strong relationships between contract research organizations (CROs) and sponsors are essential to the advancement of the two parties’ mutual interests. These relationships are especially important in the realm of dermatology, as professionals in this sector are particularly close-knit.
But what exactly makes for a good dermatology CRO and sponsor relationship? We seek to answer that very question below.
What Makes for a Good CRO/Sponsor Relationship?
Many factors impact the relationship between a contract research organization and its sponsors. First and foremost, both entities must add value to the program. They should each contribute certain expertise, knowledge, and resources to the mix in order to supplement each others’ capabilities.
In addition, a dermatology CRO, or any CRO for that matter, must share responsibility for operational outcomes and stand by its commitments to the sponsor. By doing so, it can set the stage for a long-lasting and mutually beneficial working relationship.
Furthermore, sponsors and CROs should exhibit the utmost respect for project timelines in furtherance of the study at hand. As an example, the CRO should ensure that they deliver a draft protocol by the promised date without exception. Conversely, the sponsor should share consolidated comments by the agreed-upon deadline to keep the process moving forward according to plan.
On the other side of the house, the sponsor should view the CRO as a development partner, not just a vendor. While it may seem like a secondary consideration, the way that the sponsor perceives the CRO will impact the interactions between the two entities.
Ideally, the personnel working on behalf of the two parties will develop strong relationships that go beyond just business. When both sides develop a personal connection to the project and their cohorts, everyone wins.
How Does Vial Build Relationships with Sponsors?
Vial has developed a stellar reputation throughout the dermatology industry because we take the time to nurture relationships with physicians, CMOs, project managers, and other key decision-makers. Our team understands that these relationships are invaluable to the success of any project.
Our collective approach to working with sponsors is built on transparency. At Vial, we mean what we say and follow through on our commitments. We are always upfront about what can and cannot be done.
All of the physicians in the Vial network are highly respected research professionals and possess a wealth of relevant experience. These individuals have extensive relationships of their own within the dermatology world.
The team at Vial and our network of professionals advocate for one another, solve problems together, and never lose sight of our missions.
Vial Business Development understands how to navigate and overcome uncomfortable conversations. We recognize the friction that these challenges can create and mitigate those barriers to success by becoming part of the problem-solving effort.
Regardless of the outcome of a program, Vial ensures that our team and our sponsors can part ways with mutual respect and appreciation for one another.
About Vial:
Vial’s mission is to run clinical trials with faster execution and higher quality in order to bring new therapies to market. Vial has over 70 employees and is based in San Francisco, California. Vial partners with Dermatologists to support their research teams and has created a network of over 35 Dermatology clinics. The Vial network has contributed to over 150 trials for many of the leading sponsors in Dermatology having run trials across common Medical Dermatology indications (Atopic Dermatitis, Psoriasis, Vitiligo, Alopecia Areata, Rosacea, Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Prurigo Nodularis among others) as well as Aesthetic Dermatology indications. The clinic network runs trials from Phase I through Phase IV.
