3 Life Sciences data predictions for 2023

As the exchange of structured data becomes central to evolving regulated information processes, we’re seeing a lot of investment by pharma in systems to help capture, collate, analyze, and manage that data in smart and efficient ways.?

But it’s important not to?introduce new complexity and costs in the process.?

Here are 3 specific ways to guard against that in 2023, in the face of some growing data-related trends:

1. Avoiding vendor lock-in

Streamlining end-to-end RIM activity makes good sense, making it possible to view and manage data consistently and harness it efficiently.?

But if you become locked into a single vendor’s software in the process, this could create new risk. Once any single brand has control over your company’s data, you’ll need to maintain that relationship no matter what. That could mean absorbing any changes in that vendor’s direction - or cost structure - over time.

A more robust strategy is to build strong master data, and take a platform approach to mixing and matching the best applications or ‘modules’ for each set of tasks (e. g. Clinical, Regulatory, Quality, Safety & Pharmacovigilance).

By emphasizing the data as an asset in its own right, and optimizing modern plug-and-play application integration so that data can flow seamlessly to where it’s needed, you’ll enjoy best of both worlds – optimal functionality, without lock-in.?

Fortunately, modern cloud-based deployment makes this especially easy.

2. Doing more with IDMP

Now that you’ve got to grips with ISO IDMP, ready to comply with EU/EMA expectations, it’s time to work these adjustments to your operational advantage.?

You might want to establish a clear line of sight across your ERP system, for instance, to create a seamless data trail right the way through to manufacturing. (Otherwise, you’ll end up with new silos which, as ever, are a source of cost and risk.)

In 2023, consider what’s next - and form a roadmap that extends beyond EU IDMP for its own sake.

3. Truly valuing your data - and how you treat it

Data should never be an afterthought in a project plan and related budget planning. Without good data, even the most sophisticated new IT system will fail to fulfil its goals. So be careful who you partner with when preparing or moving your data. Engaging a cheap offshore service could seriously backfire – and end up costing more, and taking longer, as remedial data work is required.

You wouldn’t compromise on a Class I Project Manager, so don’t take shortcuts when it comes to data expertise - especially in complex areas (e. g. IDMP, Clinical, Quality, etc.).

In 2023, as data becomes intrinsic to almost every strategic systems initiative, it’s vital to ensure that the project as a whole delivers.?