How to Motivate a Cross-Functional eCTD Team in Small or Start-Up Pharma Companies
- Sarah Dittmann
- Jan 31
- 2 min read
Big FDA submissions, like an IND or NDA, are high-stakes, high-pressure projects. For small or start-up pharma and biotech companies, the challenge is even greater because submission preparation often falls on cross-functional teams with other day-to-day responsibilities. So how do you keep the team motivated and focused when eCTD submissions aren't their primary job?
1. Create a Clear Roadmap for Your eCTD Team
Why it matters: Uncertainty breeds stress. A well-defined project plan with clear milestones and deadlines helps everyone see the big picture.
How to do it: Break the submission process into manageable chunks. Assign clear responsibilities and deadlines for each team member, and communicate how their contributions fit into the larger goal. Read more about how to manage a cross-functional eCTD team.
2. Communicate the Stakes
Why it matters: Teams are more motivated when they understand the “why” behind their work.
How to do it: Hold a kick-off meeting to explain how the submission will impact the company’s goals, funding, and future opportunities. Emphasize that the end goal is improving patient outcomes—bringing life-changing or life-saving solutions to market. Every piece of the submission, from clinical trial data to manufacturing details, directly contributes to ensuring patient safety and delivering better therapies. Remind the team regularly that their efforts can lead to tangible benefits for real people who need these treatments.
3. Acknowledge Workloads and Be Flexible
Why it matters: Burnout is a risk when people are juggling their primary roles and additional submission tasks.
How to do it: Offer support by redistributing workloads, outsourcing tasks or postponing non-critical projects. Be clear about what’s essential and where flexibility is possible.
4. Celebrate Progress
How to do it: Celebrate small wins, like completing a module or achieving 100% QC compliance, with public shout-outs, small treats, or team lunches.
5. Provide Tools and Training
Why it matters: A lack of familiarity with eCTD processes can slow progress and frustrate team members.
How to do it: Offer training sessions on eCTD basics or bring in an expert to guide the team. Provide tools like templates, trackers, and checklists to streamline their efforts.
6. Lead with Empathy and Enthusiasm
Why it matters: Leadership sets the tone. A supportive and positive leader can inspire even the busiest teams.
How to do it: Check in regularly to address concerns and offer encouragement. Lead by example, showing a commitment to the project and appreciation for everyone’s hard work.
7. Incentivize Participation
Why it matters: Extra effort deserves extra rewards.
How to do it: Offer incentives like bonuses, additional PTO, or career development opportunities for those who go above and beyond.
Conclusion
Motivating a cross-functional eCTD team requires clear communication, empathy, and celebration of their efforts. By fostering a supportive environment and acknowledging their contributions, you can turn a daunting submission into a unifying team success.
If your team is spread too thin, The Sugar Water Operations Team can help. Whether you need someone to step in and manage the project or need help prepping submission-ready documents, we’re here to fill your gaps and make sure you meet your milestones. Contact us today and let us know how we can assist!
