SOS Conference 2025 Newsletter Article: Key Topics from the Recent Roundtable Discussion

As we gear up for the second annual Save Our Sites (SOS) Conference in Oklahoma City, happening from March 13-15, 2025, our recent roundtable livestream brought forward some crucial topics that will shape the event. This year, we’re focusing even more on site advocacy, business development, networking, and creating actionable insights for clinical research sites. Here are some of the key discussions and ideas that emerged from the livestream:

1. Maximizing Social Media for Site Success

A recurring theme was the importance of an online presence for clinical research sites. Social media has become a pivotal tool in reaching both patients and sponsors, but the conversation also highlighted the importance of understanding your community and working with marketers who truly understand clinical research. Expect sessions on building your site's brand, creating effective campaigns, and leveraging social media to drive patient recruitment and site visibility.

2. Scaling Beyond $1 Million

Dan Sfera shared valuable insights into growing sites beyond the critical $1 million revenue mark. While reaching this milestone is a significant achievement, scaling further requires strong systems and trained staff. This session will dive into how to expand operations efficiently, whether geographically or through new therapeutic areas, and how to build a structure that supports sustainable growth.

3. Site Reputation Management

Maintaining a strong reputation is vital for attracting new studies and retaining staff. The roundtable emphasized that site owners need to understand and cultivate their site's reputation. The upcoming conference will offer practical advice on managing staff retention, creating a positive workplace culture, and how to stand out in a competitive landscape. Attendees can expect actionable strategies to implement in their own operations.

4. Patient Recruitment and Retention in the Age of Diversity Action Plans

With the FDA's new diversity guidelines taking center stage, this year's event will include deep discussions on patient recruitment and retention, particularly as it relates to diversity. How do you not only attract but keep patients engaged in studies? These sessions will focus on strategies to meet these evolving expectations and ensure successful trial completion.

5. Site Networks and New Treatment Areas

Another exciting discussion was the topic of expanding into site networks and new therapeutic areas. Whether you're just starting or expanding into new markets, there will be sessions designed to help you build your network and collaborate with local clinicians, helping you boost study enrollment and site operations.

6. Negotiating Contracts and Budgeting Effectively

Contract and budget negotiations are always a challenge for new and growing sites. Chris Sauber provided insights into common issues around payment terms, how to avoid lengthy delays, and what to negotiate when it comes to study budgets. These insights will be expanded into full workshops at the conference, offering strategies for navigating complex budgets, contract amendments, and avoiding payment delays.

7. Employee Retention: Keeping Your Team Engaged

Site staff retention is a critical, often overlooked component of running a successful research site. Speakers at the roundtable shared personal experiences and best practices for keeping employees motivated and ensuring they remain committed to the site's mission. Expect sessions dedicated to this topic, focusing on recognition programs, employee engagement, and creating a positive work environment.

8. Tech Innovations and AI Integration

With technology rapidly advancing, it's essential for sites to stay ahead of the curve. Discussions highlighted the growing role of AI in clinical research, from SOP implementation to enhancing operational efficiency. Sessions at SOS will explore the latest tools and platforms that can help streamline site operations, from recruitment tools to financial management systems.

9. Insights from Monitors and FDA Experts

Hearing directly from clinical trial monitors about what they look for in top-performing sites was a hot topic during the livestream. The conference will feature expert panels with clinical trial monitors and legal experts, including those familiar with FDA audits. Learn how to avoid 483s and navigate regulatory hurdles, ensuring your site is fully prepared for success.

10. Engagement and Networking

Lastly, the roundtable emphasized the importance of networking and community engagement. The Offers and Needs Wall from last year will return, but with new enhancements to help attendees connect and share resources more effectively. This year's conference will be designed to encourage more one-on-one interactions with sponsors, CROs, and fellow site owners, fostering meaningful partnerships that can help you grow your business.

The SOS Conference promises to be packed with invaluable information for site owners and operators. If you haven’t registered yet, early bird registration is still available! Visit [www.saveoursites.com](http://www.saveoursites.com) for more information. We look forward to seeing you in Oklahoma City this March!