Co-Creation vs Collaboration in Corporate Human Research Protection Programs

In the landscape of corporate human research protection programs, two concepts often get used interchangeably: co-creation and collaboration. While both play crucial roles in enhancing the efficacy and integrity of research, understanding their nuances can significantly impact the relationship with Institutional Review Boards (IRB) and, ultimately, the success of research projects.

The Essence of Collaboration in Human Research Protection

Collaboration in the context of human research protection programs involves the partnership between various stakeholders, including research teams, IRB members, and participants. The focus is on working together to ensure that research ethics are upheld, participant rights are protected, and compliance with regulatory requirements is achieved. Collaboration is characterized by mutual respect, shared goals, and open communication, where each party contributes from its area of expertise to facilitate the research process.

Key aspects of collaboration include:

• Regular communication between researchers and IRB to navigate ethical considerations and regulatory compliance efficiently.

• Partnership with participants to ensure informed consent and respect for their rights and well-being.

• Coordination among different departments within an organization to support research activities.

The Dynamic of Co-Creation in Research Programs

Co-creation goes a step further by involving all stakeholders in the design and execution of research projects. Unlike collaboration, which primarily focuses on partnership and communication, co-creation is about shared creation of value and innovation. In co-creation, the lines between researchers, IRB members, and participants blur, allowing for a more integrated approach to research design, execution, and analysis.

Features of co-creation include:

• Joint development of research questions and methodologies, where participants and IRBs actively contribute ideas and feedback.

• Shared decision-making processes, with a commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of all stakeholders.

• Creation of a more participant-centered research process, where the insights and experiences of participants significantly shape the project outcomes.

The Impact on Human Research Protection Programs

Both collaboration and co-creation can markedly enhance the quality and ethical standards of human research protection programs. Collaboration ensures that research is conducted responsibly and ethically, with a clear division of roles and responsibilities. Co-creation, on the other hand, fosters innovation and inclusivity, making research more relevant and impactful by incorporating diverse perspectives.

Incorporating these approaches in the relationship with IRBs can lead to:

• Enhanced trust and rapport between researchers and IRB, facilitating smoother review processes.

• Greater participant satisfaction and engagement, improving the quality and reliability of research data.

• Innovative research outcomes that are more aligned with real-world needs and challenges.

Striking the Right Balance

The choice between collaboration and co-creation depends on the goals, context, and constraints of each research project. While collaboration is essential for all research endeavors, integrating co-creation can offer additional benefits in terms of innovation and stakeholder engagement. It is crucial, however, to manage the complexities and challenges that come with co-creation, such as the need for flexible processes and the potential for conflicting interests.

By understanding and thoughtfully applying both collaboration and co-creation, corporate human research protection programs can navigate the ethical and regulatory landscape more effectively, leading to research that is not only compliant but also cutting-edge and participant-centric.

Published March 19, 2024