Minnesota rural health researchers have a new framework for evaluating and selecting technology, thanks to a guide from CTSI. The framework outlines a step-by-step approach and provides links to local and national tools, funding opportunities, and data sources.
Josh Fehrmann, MS, created the resource as part of the award-winning capstone he wrote while enrolled in the MS in Management of Technology program through the University of Minnesota Technological Leadership Institute (TLI). Fehrmann serves as CTSI’s IT Director and Clinical Trial Management System Director.
Filling a gap
The framework was shaped by Fehrmann’s meetings with University researchers and staff, in which he discovered there was no standard method for selecting technology for rural health research projects. He reflected on his capstone experience in a conversation with TLI, saying:
“It was amazing interacting with world-class researchers, adapting advanced technology forecasting tools, some of which are used by NASA, and creating a new product to impact rural health.”
The framework is co-branded by CTSI and the Office of Academic Clinical Affairs (OACA).
Future plans
Moving forward, Fehrmann plans to expand the framework’s focus beyond research and beyond Minnesota. He welcomes collaborators on the endeavor and encourages individuals to share feedback on the guide.
If you would like help using the tools listed within the framework, Fehrmann can be contacted at [email protected].