in ,

The relevance of virtual central locations in the COVID-19 era

The relevance of virtual central locations in the COVID-19 era

It would not be revelatory to suggest that many organisations have been forced to significantly revamp many aspects of their operations in light of the recent coronavirus crisis. This phenomenon has certainly been observed in many scientific fields, such as medical market research

One of the most obvious shifts has been the one away from interviews taking place face-to-face. Instead, research firms and participants are becoming accustomed to the widespread use of Internet platforms to conduct socially distanced, web-based interviews. 

What are VCLs? 

The appeal of a VCL, or virtual central location, is in how it makes possible individual meetings and group conferences with respondents via the wonders of screen sharing. 

The idea is that a virtual ‘room’ is set up where participants can access or update materials, while a moderator takes charge of discussions via phone and webcam. 

Such characteristics allow for collaboration to take place as if in a face-to-face or group discussion, in circumstances like the present in which actual face-to-face dialogue might not be feasible or desirable.  

However, it is important to recognise that VCLs are not a replacement for traditional methods, but instead act as an alternative when face-to-face communication can not be conducted effectively.

What problems can arise with VCLs?  

As convenient as they have proved to be in many contexts during the recent societal restrictions, virtual central locations are not entirely without issues. A VCL would not necessarily be ideal for such applications as product or device testing, for example. 

Furthermore, there are obvious technical constraints in that not every potential participant necessarily has the smooth and dependable Internet connection and webcam necessary to get the best out of a VCL. 

Technical issues, however, can potentially be ironed out at the recruitment stage, if a test room is set up for participants to attempt using the VCL prior to confirmation. 

Another possible drawback with a VCL compared to a more conventional central location, is the minimised scope to pick up on the body language cues that may be much more obvious when interviews are conducted face to face. 

But virtual central locations can also make a lot of sense  

On the other hand, there are a number of possible advantages of using VCLs as the pandemic continues to make itself felt. One of them is the opportunity to minimise dropouts, which can occur at a high rate when conventional central locations are used, given the need to travel and the risk of delays. 

VCLs also, of course, come with lower overheads than normal central locations, which is a further boon given how vigilantly so many organisations and researchers will currently be closely watching their costs. 

Nor are VCLs only beneficial from a time and cost perspective, as they can also assist in better reaching those elusive groups that may not have the option of attending an ordinary central location. This, in turn, allows for the targeting of the best possible participants, regardless of where they may be located. 

VCLs have long offered various very real benefits, even in non-pandemic conditions. The present highly unusual times, however, have arguably shed even greater light on the potential relevance and effectiveness of virtual central locations. Medical market research agencies like GKA are skilled and experienced in recruiting for VCLs, which can further help to ensure research goals are realised when they are used.

What do you think?

Things That Cause Wrinkles That Aren’t Due to Aging

Things That Cause Wrinkles That Aren’t Due to Aging

What Can Aid Recovery After a Car Accident?

What Can Aid Recovery After a Car Accident?