Research collaboratories: their potential for health behavior researchers.
OBJECTIVE
To discuss how online collaboratories can improve the effectiveness and efficiency of research conducted in multiple sites.


METHODS
We describe how online collaboratories offer a flexible infrastructure for health behavior researchers, and describe the strengths and weaknesses of such tools and the lessons learned from several systems.


RESULTS
Although virtual collaboration requires a technology infrastructure achieved at some cost, including access, connectedness, bandwidth, and technology literacy, the potential benefits to health behavior researchers are extensive.


CONCLUSIONS
The range of technical skills and level of comfort with technology are variable in most groups. However, technology tools are just one aspect of the fully realized collaboratory. Ultimately it is the human skills for collaboration rather than the technical excellence of the infrastructure that signals the potential for success.
Craver
James M
JM
Applied Human Technologies Division, ORC Macro International, Inc., Calverton, MD 20705, USA. James.M.Craver@orcmacro.com
Gold
Robert S
RS
D003195:Computer Communication Networks; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D015438:Health Behavior; D006302:Health Services Research / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D015337:Multicenter Studies as Topic; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D012984:Software; D014481:United States