More and more device companies are turning to contract research organizations for assistance in managing their clinical trials, something that is commonplace in the biopharma world. The first ever Partnerships in Medical Device Trials Conference was recently held in Chicago. Experts recommended a variety of steps for successful outsourcing. "When they give you a presentation and start talking about 1572s and Phase II studies, you know they haven't conducted device trials," said Jennifer Dugan, manager of clinical research for Stryker Orthobiologics. "If a CRO starts using some of those key pharma buzzwords right away, you know that the expertise probably isn't there," she continued. Speakers also warned that using bonus and penalty contractual provisions can lead to conflict. Story