Impact of a five-dimensional framework on R&D productivity at AstraZeneca

In 2011, AstraZeneca set out to improve its research and development (R&D) productivity by focusing decision-making using a framework with five technical determinants: the right target, right tissue, right safety, right patient and right commercial potential. Here, Pangalos and colleagues describe the progress made using this '5R framework', with metrics indicating improved success rates, and discuss where the approach has failed and the lessons learned.