Journal of Clinical and Translational Science (Apr 2024)

278 Accelerating the Practice of Human-Centered Design in Translational Research

  • Maureen Brudzinski,
  • Chelsea N. Proulx,
  • Will Hierholzer,
  • Aarohi Dosh,
  • Steven Reis,
  • Beth LaPensee

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1017/cts.2024.254
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 8
pp. 84 – 85

Abstract

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OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Human-centered design (HCD) provides a practical, collaborative approach to integrating diverse perspectives throughout the translational research process. We highlight two CTSAs with established HCD teams who are utilizing varied approaches to accelerate the use of HCD in health intervention design and community engagement. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: The CTSAs at the University of Michigan (MICHR) and the University of Pittsburgh (Pitt CTSI) have dedicated teams of human-centered designers that assist investigators with the application of HCD in their studies. MICHR’s service approach utilizes facilitated Design Sprints with study teams, guiding them from early conception of a research question through the co-design of interventions and innovations with end-users. Pitt CTSI’s training and consultation approach employs a two-day intensive training with group coaching sessions that provide investigators and research staff with skills and knowledge needed to implement HCD within translational research projects. Both hubs offer consultations on methodology for investigators interested in pursuing funding for studies utilizing HCD. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: Research teams at both hubs are pursuing HCD to co-design health research interventions and mHealth technologies with end-users locally and internationally, to facilitate meaningful engagement within advisory boards and collaboratives, and to enhance team science. To date, MICHR has conducted 13 research study-focused Design Sprints with 73 participants, as well as providing consultations to 26 research teams. Pitt CTSI has trained 164 investigators and staff and provided 146 consultations with research teams. Requests for HCD training have increased at MICHR while requests for HCD service provision have increased at Pitt CTSI. Both hubs are now building capacity to enact a more holistic approach to HCD that combines service delivery and training approaches to better meet the needs of investigators. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Increasing CTSA hub capacity to support the use of HCD in translational research by offering service and training opportunities can position investigators to conduct high impact health research that elevates the voices of those most likely to benefit from interventions, treatments, and innovations.