Launching our new community platform: development updates
Since June, the Swiss Network for Dementia Research has been working intensively on the development of a new community platform for dementia research. The platform is intended to become a central point of contact for the exchange of knowledge and networking of researchers, clinicians and other stakeholders in the field of Swiss dementia research.
The following article provides an overview of the platform's progress to date, objectives and key functions.
Purpose of the platform: Promote networking and exchange
The new platform serves as a central hub for dementia research in Switzerland. It aims to connect all relevant players - researchers, clinicians, institutions, funding partners and patient organizations. There is a particular focus on interdisciplinary exchange between basic and clinical research. The aim is to transfer research results into practice more quickly and to provide new impetus for research.
In addition, the platform will offer young researchers the opportunity to make their work and interests more visible and to find new cooperation partners. The platform will provide a comprehensive overview of available resources such as biosamples, animal models or diagnostic tools to further promote collaboration within the Swiss research community.
Conception of the platform: feedback from the community
The development of the platform is based on an intense exchange with the community. In June 2024, a survey was launched in which 44 experts from basic research, clinical research and practice took part. The majority of respondents emphasized the importance of features such as an overview of funding opportunities (97.7%), current projects (79.5%) and initiatives in the field of dementia (72.7%).
Based on this feedback, a concept was developed and refined in 20 further interviews with professionals from across Switzerland. These interviews provided valuable insights into the needs of researchers and helped to tailor the platform's functions precisely to these needs.
Important functions: Unique features of the platform
The platform is set to have several key features that set it apart from existing offerings:
- Funding opportunities: Providing a detailed overview of current calls and funding partners in the field of neurodegenerative diseases. This function was the most frequent request from the community and is intended to make it easier for researchers to access funding opportunities.
- Resource pool: The platform will map all available tools and services in Switzerland - from biosamples and animal models to diagnostic technologies. The pooling of resources should increase research efficiency and facilitate cooperation within the research community.
- Project overview: researchers can present their ongoing projects and publications, which promotes transparency and exchange on current developments in dementia research.
- Profiles for researchers: The opportunity for researchers to create their profiles to make their research results and interests visible. Young researchers in particular can expand their network in this way.
Milestones: from concept to platform
In June 2024, work on the platform began with a needs analysis survey. This was followed by a concept workshop in July in close collaboration with the agency, which is supporting the technical implementation. The official launch of the platform is planned for November 18, 2024 and will take place at the Synapsis Forum in Gerzensee - an event that brings together researchers in the field of neurodegenerative diseases supported by the .
Challenges and lessons learned
Challenges were encountered during the development of the platform, particularly about technical aspects and the onboarding process. These areas will continue to be closely monitored to ensure that the platform provides a smooth and efficient user experience.
Beta test and go-live
Before the platform officially launches in November, we are inviting our community to help out as beta testers. You can gain exclusive insights into the platform in advance and provide valuable feedback so that we can continue to improve it.
We are looking forward to the launch of the platform and are convinced that it will make a major contribution to networking and promoting dementia research in Switzerland.
