But what counts as “potential”?: Identifying potential benefits across use cases and developing framework for defining “potential”

Our presentation will begin by describing the integration of the translational science benefits model (TSBM) within three distinct processes: in case studies including focus on translational research and workforce development programs; in a database platform used to track, monitor, and assess activities and achievements across the CTSA; and in CTSA-supported grant project applications and ongoing grantee reporting. In each of these use cases, we distinguish between demonstrated/realized benefits and potential benefits, with the latter speaking to benefits that have not yet been realized but that are made possible or would be anticipated. This presentation will examine specific questions arising, challenges experienced, and paths forward regarding integration of “potential” benefits in each case. With this experience, we will then provide and present three distinct ways to conceptualize “potential”: by time to realization, by likelihood of realization, and by centrality of the current effort for realization. We will address the conceptual and practical benefits and challenges of utilizing each approach.