<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">Implementing a Clinical Research Database Management System in an Academic Institute: Lessons Learned

Clinical research is a cornerstone of medical advancement, requiring efficient data management and coordination across multiple stakeholders. This study explores the implementation of a digital research management system at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto (FMUP) to address the challenges posed by its extensive and diverse clinical research portfolio. Given the institution's need to centralize research activities, improve efficiency, and ensure regulatory compliance, the CR-Digital project was launched to integrate a comprehensive database management system. Over a two-year period, FUNDANET was selected and implemented due to its adaptability to FMUP&rsquo;s research framework, its ability to enhance collaboration, and its alignment with legal and financial requirements. The implementation process was structured into seven key phases, with the primary challenge being the alignment of diverse departmental objectives and preferences. These ranged from ensuring seamless interoperability with electronic health records to meeting the usability needs of researchers and administrators. Despite these complexities, FUNDANET successfully provided a robust platform encompassing digital research management, clinical study tools, and advanced data analytics, streamlining research workflows and optimizing decision-making processes. This study highlights the lessons learned during the system&rsquo;s deployment, demonstrating the importance of selecting adaptable technological solutions, fostering stakeholder engagement, and implementing structured change management strategies. The insights gained from this project can inform other institutions seeking to modernize their clinical research infrastructure, ultimately contributing to more efficient, transparent, and data-driven research environments.