A Skill-Based Approach to Training and Development within Clinical Data Coordination

To utilize information technologies that enable patient data to be reviewed via computer instead of the more traditional paper review, the Clinical Data Coordination Department at R. W. Johnson Pharmaceutical Research Institute created a skill-based training program to integrate these technologies into their work process. Coordinators serve as functional generalists for therapeutic area teams. Following the work flow created by the technologies, an employee design committee developed the training. Training was skill-based, developing the skills and knowledge necessary for effective task execution. These skills and knowledge were grouped into skill blocks, mirroring the major segments of work. After structured training, a block assessment evaluated the successful completion of each skill block. Completion of training was largely self-paced to accommodate individual learning rates. Beyond the successful integration of technologies, the training resulted in clear, measurable standards for departmental and employee performance, better utilization of skills and knowledge present within the organization, and increased employee commitment through continuous learning.