Statistics Research » Data Coordinating Centers

Study Logistics

We have extensive experience coordinating and managing study logistics for U.S.-based and international studies. Expertise in study logistics includes meeting coordination, travel planning, and communications management. As a coordinating center, we project professionalism and cultural sensitivity when managing study logistics and offer exceptional organizational skills and knowledge in the coordination of logistics.

Meeting Coordination

We offer meeting logistics management experience ranging from hotel/site coordination to agenda preparation. Logistical details may include

  • Meeting location and sleeping room negotiations
  • Meeting material preparation
  • Communication with meeting attendees
  • Developing meeting agenda
  • Audio visual arrangements
  • Banquet arrangements
  • Meeting minutes management

Travel Planning

We can coordinate all details related to travel, including

  • Drafting itinerary/purchasing tickets
  • Ground transportation
  • Accommodation reservations
  • Visa processing

Communications

Computer and Phone

We have extensive experience in technology and in using the most effective communication tools to strengthen relationships and share information, including

  • Web sites (public and private)
  • Teleconferencing/videoconferencing
  • Web conferencing
  • E-mail
  • Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (such as Skype®)
  • Internet listserves (such as YahooGroups)
  • Newsletters

Study Reports

We are regularly responsible for the preparation and submission of study materials and reports that are distributed by e-mail or posted on project Web sites for investigators to download. We prepare and distribute periodic monitoring and statistical reports, including tables and narrative describing progress and conduct of the studies, data quality, and interim study outcomes, to members of the steering committee, the DSMB, and the appropriate regulatory agencies. These reports also summarize performance with regard to data collection, missing or inconsistent data, keying and transmission of data, resolution of edit queries, and quality assurance statistics. Most important is that safety information from adverse events are rapidly processed and reported.

Site or Investigator Payments

We currently administer the distribution of funds to the research sites for the conduct of NIH-sponsored studies. Typically, per task or per event (such as visits, special tests, or completion of a form) remuneration rates are negotiated with each study site prior to the study initation. All of these tasks are linked to the data being collected so that capitation funds can be appropriately distributed to the study sites. The amount of the payment for each activity is based on the amount of time, equipment, and other related costs associated with that activity. Thoughtful negotiation of these rates with the study sites yields a funding distribution system that all parties will view as equitable and fair. The payments are monitored through a reporting system based on the accumulating database and payment distribution information.