SAB NewsThe Science Advisory Board Celebrates 10 Years!Posted 9/10/2007  Deriving all its power from member participation and contributions, The Science Advisory Board happily celebrates its 10th year of existence. The mission of The Science Advisory Board was, and is, to improve communications between medical and life science professionals and the companies who provide this community with products and services. On September 12, 1997 the online community of The Science Advisory Board (SAB) was launched. Ten years, 34,000 members, 1200 studies, 100-thousand discussion forum posts later, and the rest of world is starting to catch up, as evident by the popularity of Web 2.0. Web 2.0 is a phrase and buzzword first coined by O’Reilly Media in 2003 referring to the integrated concept of using the web as a platform. Not so much a new version of the World Wide Web itself, as the name might entail - but instead a different method of using the Web and Web applications that is both user-friendly and readily available. The name was chosen because it was a term familiar to those working in the life sciences and medical fields. However, in contrast to the original idea of an “advisory board”, which is generally composed of only a handful of prestigious scientists who advise on R&D and product development, our organization utilizes the Web’s strength of a global audience by designing a platform for ALL end users of products and technologies within the field. The Science Advisory Board has provided a place for scientific and medical professionals to both form a collective voice and share their unique perspectives. Designed by scientists for scientists, The Science Advisory Board provides researchers with an online forum to communicate their queries and discoveries; as well as a broad range of electronic resources that include: protocols, product reviews, book reviews, and science news. Most of the site-content is member submitted, and just as open-access literature is promoting the unrestricted spread of discoveries and ideas, The Science Advisory Board does the same. Currently with over 34,000 members from more than 90 countries, we have provided a free platform for life science-specific discussion forums, blogging, and networking, long before the hype of some of the currently popular networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace, and YouTube. The SAB intended to and after ten years in production, has succeeded in accurately reflecting the experiences, preferences and unmet needs of those using the life science products being manufactured. Without bombarding users with any banner ads or pop-up windows, The Science Advisory Board facilitates dialog and encourages collaboration. Unlike many other professional organizations, there are no annual dues, which enables young, entry-level post docs or grad students to obtain advice from experienced professionals. Simultaneously, the established, successful researchers have the opportunity to guide and influence their scientific successors and have access to colleagues across industry and academia. The wealth of knowledge and debate that can be spurred by online participation is virtually limitless. (no pun intended :-) ) To accomplish our mission, The Science Advisory Board also conducts studies about the products and services currently used by members. While study participation is entirely voluntary on the part of SAB members, companies value this information and use it to improve existing products and services or to develop new ones that better meet the needs of their customers - our members. While members undergo a verification process at registration, their identity is protected by anonymity in studies and through screen names within the discussion forums, thus allowing participants to contribute their honest and unbiased opinions. We sincerely believe that both sides ultimately benefit from improved communication and understanding. Companies that listen to the end-users of their products will be rewarded with a lasting competitive advantage. Scientists and clinicians will benefit from having products that are better designed, more effective and vendors that are more responsive to their needs. “The SAB provides networking opportunities and a good resource for potential future employment, as well as the unique ability to help shape the future of the industry by providing real-life answers to questions asked by our most popular and applicable vendors.” - Laboratory Director, Pfizer Global Research and Development We are proud to say that much of the success of our online community has been completely user driven. While the interest in the ideas of Web 2.0 grow (the 4th Web 2.0 conference will take place this October in San Francisco) we believe The Science Advisory Board stands as a shining example of those fundamental concepts successfully put into place six years before the buzz began. Essentially functioning as a democracy, The SAB is “ruled by the governed”; members spur on one another’s ideas and discussions in the forums, suggest study topics that are of interest to them, inspire unique research directions from their insights, and continuously encounter new ways to benefit from the outpouring of knowledge that they themselves are a part of, creating a continuous cycle of creativity. “The Science Advisory Board has provided insight into a variety of topics, either through surveys, reviews, or polls which I would not otherwise look into. Of special note is the survey program, which is remarkably rewarding. Aside from the points that can be used to earn products, each completed survey provides perspective into a number of issues, and into my own scientific practices. It wasn't until I answered a number of surveys that I realized how much I rely on products based on brand reputation or current use. I've since opened my eyes to the products I am using, and have focused on scientific merit and effectiveness rather than the company from which they come. Plus, it doesn't hurt that the Science Advisory Board has a product review section from which I can also elicit an objective opinion on potential purchases.” - Staff Scientist, Schering-Plough Research Institute Using the Internet as an open access platform may still be a concept some people are adapting to but as professionals begin to leverage social networking sites to generate business, professional networking online will continue to increase. The Science Advisory Board provides those working in the life science fields with vast opportunities for increasing the ease, convenience, and availability of Web applications that may improve overall work and professional career experiences. “It is like going to a large scientific meeting, only you can go whenever you feel like it.” - Staff Scientist, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Thank you to everyone who has been a part of The Science Advisory Board experience for the past ten years. Individually, it's often hard for one person's opinion to make a difference, but collectively - through The Science Advisory Board - it is possible to exert great influence. Through your contributions and insights we have gone in exciting and unexpected directions, which is a path we will continue to follow for as long as you lead us. It is a joy to represent such a fine group of professionals and I hope you continue to bless us with your valuable perspectives, challenging concepts, and diverse backgrounds! Catherine Seguin Membership Marketing Manager The Science Advisory Board |
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