The formation of large consortium research groups requires resources, primarily leadership, time, and money. There is scant information to assist such groups in setting up effective structures and functions as lessons learned by each group are rarely shared or discoverable. This manuscript describes the lessons learned by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases-sponsored Prevention of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (PLUS) Research Consortium. PLUS investigators describe foundational lessons and insights from a decade of conducting PLUS research activities. Establishing consortium norms and decision making policy, formation of core groups within a matrixed structure to execute prioritized agendas, and balancing inclusivity and scientific rigor with financial and (timetable) feasibility. Strategies to promote interpersonal connections facilitate collaboration, reduce hierarchical barriers, and foster a culture of mutual understanding and respect. Balancing aspirations and feasibility require considering trade-offs in planning specific study goals. The lessons and insights of the PLUS Research Consortium may be used to inform the establishment and activities of future large research groups. Specific lessons in key areas of research group functioning may expedite and inform the work of future research groups within and beyond the specific area of women’s bladder health.
Brubaker et al. (Sun,) studied this question.