Conceptualization, development, and early dissemination of eMPACTTM: A competency-based career navigation system for translational research professionals

Abstract

Introduction: Purposeful training and ongoing career support are necessary to meet the evolving and expanding roles of clinical research professionals (CRP). To address the training and employment needs of clinical research coordinators (CRCs), one of the largest sectors of the CRP workforce, we designed, developed, and implemented an online career navigation system, eMPACT^TM (eMpowering Purposeful Advancement of Careers and Training).

Methods: A design-based research method was employed as an overarching approach that frames iterative design, development, and implementation of educational interventions. The five major phases of this project - conceptualization, task analysis for measurement development, algorithms development, algorithms validation, and system evaluation - presented specific goals and relevant methods.

Results: The results reported how the eMPACT^TM system was conceptualized, developed, and validated. The system allowed CRCs to navigate tailored training and job opportunities by completing their task competencies and career goals. The data sets could, in turn, support employees' and training coordinators' informed decisions about organizational training needs and recruitment. The early dissemination results showed steady growth in registered CRCs and diversity in users' ethnicity and job levels.

Conclusions: The eMPACT^TM service showed the possibility of supporting CRCs' individual career advancement and organizational workforce enhancement and diversity. Long-term research is needed to evaluate its impact on CRC workforce development, explore key factors influencing workforce sustainability, and expand eMPACT^TM service to other CRP sectors.

Keywords: Translational workforce development; career advancement; career navigation system; clinical research coordinator; job and training matching algorithm.