Where it all began: why we wrote ‘The Site Factor’
April 8, 2026 | Clinical Sites, Participant engagement, Site Teams, clinical trials
Discover the story behind ‘The Site Factor’ and how understanding site teams’ experiences can transform clinical trials for participants and researchers alike.
When we published ‘The Participation Equation’ last year, we set out to better understand how participants experience clinical studies and what shapes their engagement. What quickly became clear was the central role of the study team. Across different trials and settings, participant experience was moulded by the quality of that relationship.
As studies become more digital and decentralised, participants continue to tell us that human connection really matters to them.
That insight led us to a natural next question: if site teams play such a defining role in participant experience, how well do we understand their experience?
Why this research, and why now?
In 2025, we saw sponsors looking for ways to support sites with the increasing strain they are under. Recruitment is tougher, protocols are more demanding, and expectations continue to rise. Sponsors recognise that they must get site support right, but they are often unsure about how or where to start, or what could make the biggest difference in practice.
This was the catalyst for ‘The Site Factor’.
Before adding to the conversation, we wanted to better understand the reality on the ground. How are protocols translated into daily work? Where do challenges show up in interactions with participants? And what support do site teams need to deliver a trial experience that feels good for everyone involved?
We spoke with more than 100 site team members across nine countries, listening closely to where things feel hard, where systems don’t quite join up, and where there’s genuine opportunity to do better. We heard about the importance of alignment and its impact on participant experience, as well as the sponsor cost burden when those things are missing.
Bringing these perspectives together is an important step. It gives us a clear picture of the current landscape and a solid foundation to build on.
A springboard
This report sits alongside ‘The Participation Equation’, adding an important second perspective.
By putting ourselves in the shoes of site staff, we are sparking conversations and practical action towards the shared goal of making trials work better for everyone involved. Not through quick fixes, but through thoughtful, practical real-world solutions.
This is the work we care deeply about — turning insight into action, and data into meaningful change. Because when we listen to what truly matters — to participants and site teams alike — we can design research that works in practice, not just on paper.
This content was provided by Cuttsy + Cuttsy
Company Details
Latest Content from Cuttsy + Cuttsy
Clinical trials explained: Why health literacy matters…
Clinical trial recruitment can be a challenge. By applying the principles of health literacy to all materials, we can support people to make an informed choice about whether to take...
Clinical trials explained: Why iconography matters…
Icons serve as a useful form of alternative communication. We spend a lot of time developing icons for healthcare communications. Find out how we use iconography to elevate clinical trial...
Cuttsy+Cuttsy appoints Harriet Karia as Managing Director
Cuttsy+Cuttsy is pleased to announce the appointment of Harriet Karia as its first Managing Director.
Using generative AI in healthcare comms – our promise to our clients
It’s safe to say one of the hottest topics of 2023 has been ChatGPT and the launch of other Generative AI-driven applications. So, we’re sharing our promises, so that when...
Clinical trials explained: Why colour matters…
Colour can be used to emphasise mood, evoke emotions, and determine first impressions of a brand. Find how to use colour effectively in your next clinical trial campaign.
Clinical trials explained: Why branding matters…
With nearly a decade’s experience supporting clinical trials, find out why we think humanising trials through design is so important.
DPHARM2023 – Five key themes impacting clinical trials today
Throughout three fascinating days of conference, some key themes emerged that are impacting study teams and the effectiveness of their clinical trials on a daily basis.
Flexible working: a fad or the future?
As the Flexible Working Bill gets written into UK law, we took a look at what this means for businesses of all sizes and specialities.
Looking for a job head first
During Health Information Week, we reflected on mental health and wellbeing within the workplace. Cuttsy+Cuttsy’s mental health first aider and HR Manager, Kate McCabe, shared some thoughts on what mental...
Patients as Partners – putting people first in clinical trials
Cuttsy+Cuttsy's key takeaways from the Patients as Partners conference 2023