Assessment of User Experience During Phase 3 of PCORnet®

PCORnet^® is a large, nationally representative “network of networks” funded by PCORI to improve the nation’s capacity to efficiently conduct definitive patient-centered health research, particularly patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER). PCORI is engaged in ongoing monitoring and evaluation efforts to promote continuous improvement and inform its decision-making with respect to PCORI strategies and investments for PCORnet. One component of these evaluation activities is a commissioned assessment, carried out by NORC at the University of Chicago, to assess user experience during Phase 3 of PCORnet. 

In alignment with PCORI’s Board-approved strategies to Leverage PCORnet® to Advance PCORI’s National Priorities for Health and Evaluate PCORnet Performance, the objectives of the assessment are to:

1. Assess experiences of PCORnet users (i.e., investigators using PCORnet, Front Door users and research funding organizations supporting research that uses PCORnet).
2. Assess experiences of PCORnet® Network Partners (i.e., patient partners involved in governance and research that uses PCORnet, Coordinating Center, Clinical Research Network (CRN) leads and key staff and CRN site principal investigators).
3. Understand awareness and perception of PCORnet among potential users (e.g., PCORI applicants and awardees who have not used PCORnet resources).  
4. Hold a virtual, public convening to share findings from the assessment and discuss future opportunities for PCORnet.

Methods Used

To meet these objectives, NORC is conducting qualitative and mixed-methods data collection (i.e., interviews and questionnaires) and a virtual convening.

Final Report

The final report will be made available upon completion.