Advancing Vision 2030: SCDM and CDISC Strengthen Their Collaboration for the Clinical Data Community
The Society for Clinical Data Management (SCDM) and the Clinical Data Interchange Standards Consortium (CDISC) have entered into a new partnership that reflects a shared commitment to advancing the clinical data profession and supporting the evolving needs of clinical research.
This collaboration is closely aligned with SCDM’s Vision 2030, and in particular with the priority of building meaningful partnerships that help the community navigate increasing complexity, accelerate learning, and optimise end‑to‑end data flow across clinical research.
As clinical research continues to evolve, shaped by growing data volumes, date variety, digital innovation, and changing regulatory expectations, this partnership brings together complementary perspectives: CDISC’s leadership in data standards and SCDM’s role in professional development, education, and community engagement.
“Vision 2030 is about ensuring our community is equipped for the future – professionally, technically, and collectively,” said Ward Lemaire, SCDM Chair 2026. “Our partnership with CDISC reflects a joint ambition to align standards, education, and real-world practice, so clinical data professionals are supported where it matters most.”
A Partnership Aligned with SCDM’s Priorities
The collaboration between SCDM and CDISC is designed to support clinical data professionals through focused, long-term cooperation in the areas closest to their everyday work.
Rather than a single initiative, the partnership sets out a framework for ongoing collaboration. Key areas of collaboration include:
- Co-developed educational content, with the exploration of delivering CDISC-led modules through SCDM’s learning platform.
- Joint conference sessions at key SCDM events, such as the Annual and EMEA Conferences, focused on CDISC updates, emerging standards, interoperability, and their real-world impact on clinical research operations.
- Shared thought leadership and regulatory alignment, including collaboration on clinical research terminology, data flow concepts, and digital data initiatives to support greater consistency and understanding across the clinical research ecosystem.
- Global event partnerships, such as the joint planning and delivery of the Japan Conference – with engagement of local volunteer communities and shared approaches to program design and delivery.
- Coordinated visibility across communities, through cross-promotion of conferences and webinars, and shared use of communication channels to maximise reach and awareness of collaborative initiatives.
Together, these activities aim to strengthen the link between standards development, professional education, and the realities of clinical data work, supporting professionals across regions and career stages while contributing to a more connected and capable clinical research ecosystem.
“At CDISC, our focus is on ensuring the clinical research ecosystem is prepared for the future – through connected standards, scalable innovation, and strong collaboration,” said Chris Decker, Chief Executive Officer of CDISC. “As the breadth and complexity of data sources explode within our industry, our partnership with SCDM is important to bring together experts in the SCDM community with CDISC standards professionals exceptional professionals, best practices, and community connection to enable a more integrated, efficient, and connected clinical trial lifecycle.”
Supporting a Connected and Future‑Ready Community
Strengthening partnerships of this kind is a clear priority for SCDM as it delivers on Vision 2030. By working closely with organizations that share its values and sustained outlook, SCDM continues to invest in a future where the clinical data profession is visible, valued, and ready to lead through the digital and standards-driven shifts reshaping clinical research.
