RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC--(Marketwire - August 6, 2008) - A recent study released by
Cutting Edge Information indicates that as the MSL role changes, so do
MSLs' industry contacts. The study found that MSLs now concentrate on
establishing contacts with specialties and advanced knowledge in specific
therapeutic areas.
MSLs at small companies reported that 82% of their contacts specialize in
some area, whether it is a disease, a certain type of a disease or a
certain surgery. Mid-sized companies' MSLs reported that 77% fell into the
above categories, and 79% of MSLs at large companies indicated the same.
These statistics bear out the study's finding that the role of the MSL has
become more science-focused. Many MSL groups now serve a function
resembling internal thought leader groups, and companies are now filling
the MSL role with personnel who hold advanced scientific degrees and have
clinical research experience.
This scientific focus leads MSL groups to establish contacts that will
facilitate scientific exploration rather than sales or other promotional
causes. Highly trained scientists in MSL roles have both the knowledge set
and skills to foster relationships with leading thought leaders and to aid
them in their research goals.
"MSLs now act as advisors and facilitators in setting their respective
companies' scientific strategies," says Elio Evangelista, lead author of
the report. "As field-based scientists, MSLs are in excellent position to
remain abreast of new scientific discoveries through their contact with
leading researchers. In a sense, they have become intelligence agents for
their companies."
The 203-page report was developed from survey and interview data for 30
pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Its findings enable companies
to improve their thought leader management by maximizing their MSLs' value,
scientific knowledge and relationship-building skills.
This study covers these key aspects of MSL programs:
-- Structure, Budgets and Staffing
-- MSL Qualifications and Performance Measurement
-- Field Force Strategies and Communication
The report contains 500+ metrics, including the following:
-- Number of thought leader relationships by company size
-- Degrees required by MSLs working with PCP thought leaders
-- Breakdowns of thought leader relationships by company size and
provider category
-- Ratio of MSLs to sales reps
Download a complimentary brochure here:
http://cuttingedgeinfo.com/mslperformance/PH115_Download.asp#body
Report Website:
www.MSLPerformance.com
Contact Information: CONTACT INFORMATION:
Elio Evangelista
919-433-0214