Research Database Review And Improvement Plan Consultancy

Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is an independent and international medical humanitarian organisation delivering emergency aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, natural disasters, and exclusion from healthcare.

The MSF Research Management and Impact Tool (REMIT) was developed in 2016 to track MSF research studies and support efforts to measure the impact of MSF research. It also serves as a central repository for all documentation and information related to these studies. Since its launch, REMIT has been updated regularly in response to user feedback and evolving needs.

However, several challenges have emerged:

• Researcher compliance with updating records remains relatively low (around 55% this year).
• Reporting is cumbersome, with even basic summaries requiring manual manipulation of large Excel files.
• Integration with other MSF systems is limited. There may be opportunities to align REMIT more closely with other internal databases or incorporate useful functionalities from those systems to improve efficiency and user experience.
• It is unclear whether REMIT is the most suitable tool for tracking research impact in its current form.

Objective

To conduct a comprehensive assessment of the REMIT platform with the dual aim of identifying current limitations and providing actionable recommendations for its future development or replacement.

A two-stage assessment of the REMIT platform is required to:

1. Identify Current Limitations and Gaps

• Evaluate whether REMIT is fit for purpose in tracking research studies and measuring impact.
• Examine usability challenges, compliance risks, and inefficiencies in reporting workflows.
• Assess the relevance and effectiveness of existing indicators used to track impact.
• Surface technical, functional, or user experience issues that hinder platform performance.

2. Develop Recommendations for Improvement

• Propose enhancements to improve usability, compliance, and reporting efficiency.
• Recommend adjustments or replacements for impact indicators to better reflect research outcomes.
• Advise on whether MSF should invest in upgrading REMIT or migrate to a more suitable alternative (e.g., CKAN or platforms used by MSF or external partners).

Expected results / outcomes

• A comprehensive review report assessing REMIT’s current performance, strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.
• A comparison of potential options (e.g., upgrade vs. migration), including advantages, risks, costs, and feasibility.
• REMIT Improvement recommendations, detailing proposed actions to:
• Increase user compliance and engagement.
• Improve automated reporting and data visualisation for different audiences.
• Ensure metadata and indicators capture key study and impact details (e.g., inclusion of specific cohorts).

Deliverables and deadlines

1. Inception report
   Summary of proposed methodology, work plan, and tools for assessment.
2. Needs assessment summary
   Analysis of user feedback, compliance barriers, and reporting requirements.
3. Platform review report
   Evaluation of REMIT’s usability, architecture, and alternative options.
4. REMIT improvement plan
   Detailed, prioritised action plan with recommendations and resource needs.
5. Final presentation
   Presentation of key findings and recommendations

Profile of consultant

Technical Expertise

• Proven ability to assess digital platforms for functionality, usability, and performance.
• Strong understanding of database architectures and integration options with other systems.
• Familiarity with open-source data management systems (e.g., CKAN) and web application frameworks (e.g., Ruby on Rails).
• Knowledge of data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI) and automated reporting solutions.
• Understanding of data governance, privacy, and compliance requirements in humanitarian research contexts.

Research and Impact Knowledge

• Familiarity with indicators and methodologies used to monitor research outcomes and measure social impact.
• Solid understanding of academic research processes, including dissemination and impact measurement.
• Experience with knowledge management and research tracking systems.

User Experience and Engagement

• Ability to evaluate user experience and recommend improvements for accessibility and efficiency.
• Strong grasp of UX and design principles for digital platforms.
• Demonstrated experience conducting stakeholder consultations, user interviews, and translating feedback into actionable system improvements.

Analytical and Strategic Skills

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize findings into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Experience in cost-benefit analysis and risk assessment for system upgrade vs. migration options.
• Ability to deliver strategic improvement plans under tight deadlines.

Project Delivery and Communication

• Proven experience in database assessment and improvement planning, particularly for research or monitoring systems.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage pressure effectively.
• Exceptional communication and report-writing skills, including presenting findings to diverse audiences.
• Experience in change management and guiding organisations through system transitions.

Preferred Experience

• Previous work with NGOs, research institutions, or humanitarian organisations.

How to apply

In your proposal, please include:

1. Your proposal outlining your understanding of the assignment and its objectives.
2. Proposed methodology and tools for the review.
3. A high-level plan, including indicative timelines.
4. Scope definition: What you see as in/out of scope.
5. Assumptions and questions or areas of uncertainty you foresee.
6. CV(s) of the consultant(s) who will conduct the assessment.
7. Total fee proposal.

Please submit your application before 23:59 (UK time) 8 DECEMBER 2025 to: admin.mu@london.msf.org

Please note that only applications with all of the above 1-7 steps will be considered for this consultancy.

For further questions also contact: admin.mu@london.msf.org

Expected start date: December 2025