Cutting Edge Information Finds the Evolving Pharmaceutical Industry Is Driving Factor for CROs

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC--(Marketwire - May 27, 2009) - Shifting trends in the global pharmaceutical industry signal a move toward increased outsourcing and greater reliance on outside organizations.

"Pharma 2020: Challenging Business Models," a recent report by PricewaterhouseCoopers, suggests that drug companies may undergo a transition from the traditional pharmaceutical business model. This change means a greater emphasis on collaboration between pharma and outside sectors such as IT, academia, and general healthcare providers. It also means a heavier dependence on outsourcing, as tasks that were once core competencies now go to specialized vendors.

Clinical trials present a prime area for outsourcing. "As outside firms assume more responsibility for day-to-day development, biopharmaceutical companies must make careful choices when selecting and managing partners," says Jeremy Spivey, research analyst at Cutting Edge Information and lead author of "Clinical Outsourcing Strategy: Selecting Partners and Managing Relationships."

Emerging markets around the globe offer development opportunities but also force the industry to adapt quickly. Drug trials in parts of Eastern Europe and Asia, for example, often mean lower costs and accessible patient populations, but cross-border challenges abound.

"Every country has an intrinsic set of potential complications," Spivey notes. "Whether those issues are matters of language, time zone differences, regulatory oversight or other problems, projects can struggle in unexpected ways."

Cutting Edge Information's "Clinical Outsourcing Strategy: Selecting Partners and Managing Relationships" (http://www.clinicaloutsourcingstrategy.com) discusses benefits and drawbacks of specific regions when outsourcing trials. The report examines clinical outsourcing trends and provides strategies for eliminating common obstacles in CRO selection and management. It also shows trial sponsors how to formulate a proactive outsourcing strategy, establish criteria for selecting a vendor, and manage day-to-day CRO relationships.

A complimentary report brochure is available at http://www.clinicaloutsourcingstrategy.com.

Contact Information: Contact: Jeremy Spivey 919-433-0373