Introduction
Phastar’s recent webinar, “Implementing a Gold Standard FSP Strategic Partnership to Fuel Efficient Drug Development,” provided valuable insights on key aspects of functional service provider (FSP) collaborations and their impact on drug development, particularly in oncology.
Our panel of experts discussed strategies for maximizing FSP solutions. They highlighted how to achieve excellence in quality, efficiency, and operational effectiveness to enhance clinical trials and drive better outcomes.
Developing an FSP solution can help ensure your clinical trials run smoothly, with accurate reporting and the best possible outcomes for your studies and patients.
Choosing the Right FSP Partner
During the webinar panelists discussed the key differences between, and the benefits and drawbacks of working with specialist or niche providers versus full-service FSP solutions. Noting that specialist providers will offer specific knowledge and tailored solutions, making them ideal for projects requiring expertise. In contrast, full-service FSPs provide a broad range of services but may lack the specialized focus necessary for complex projects.
Panelists highlighted the importance of training and development in FSP partnerships. Specialist providers often prioritize continuous development of their staff, ensuring they possess and are able to leverage the latest methods, expertise and skills to meet client needs. This focus on specialized training is particularly beneficial in areas such as oncology, where understanding statistical programming and specific therapeutic nuances is crucial.
Practical Considerations for Global Workforces
Ping-Chung Chang, Head of Business Transformation and China General Manager at Phastar explored the intricacies of global partnerships. He addressed significant challenges such as:
- navigating different time zones,
- local regulatory and cultural requirements,
- managing costs and maintaining a stable resource pool.
Ping concluded by offering practical FSP solutions and strategies to ensure your clinical trial has the highest chance of success. He highlighted why working with vendors that have global reach is beneficial due to their deep understanding of local markets and regulators. These partners often bring valuable insights into the local language, culture, and how these factors influence interactions with regulators and investigators.
Building Robust Communication Strategies
Elisa Mansfield, Vice President and Head of FSP at Phastar, addressed the importance of establishing and maintaining effective communication channels.
They highlighted how crucial it is to maintain clear and consistent communication in partnerships and shared methods to overcome common obstacles.
The first key step is to establish the partnership framework early on, outlining the core principles from the start. This FSP solution framework should then be shared with all stakeholders and reviewed regularly. This framework will guide the communication channels, building on the goals and requirements set at the outset.
Another important communication factor is the selection of platforms and systems to manage the relationship. It’s essential to determine how these will be managed and by whom, ensuring that visibility and transparency are consistently maintained within the partnership.
A third consideration discussed was the importance of everyday communication methods, such as instant messaging or phone calls. It’s essential to think about how these channels will function globally and locally, and who should be involved in the communication process.
Sponsors must establish strong, collaborative relationships with providers who can support their success in a rapidly evolving marketplace. By forging these partnerships, sponsors can access the expertise and resources needed to navigate market shifts, adapt to emerging trends, and drive innovation and growth in their industry.
Summary
Strategic FSP partnerships are crucial for advancing drug development. By engaging with expert partners and leveraging their specialized knowledge, sponsors can navigate the complexities of drug development more effectively, ensuring successful project outcomes and better patient care.
Catch up on our previous webinars here
About Phastar
By thoroughly understanding your clinical development and outsourcing goals, we create a tailored strategy that aligns perfectly with your specific need, including levels of oversight, risk tolerance and insourced (Functional Service Provision) or outsourced (Project Based Services) staff.
