An Analysis of the World Cafe Approach to Exploring a Model of a Multidisciplinary Research Center: A Case Study from Siriraj Integrated Perioperative Geriatric Excellent Research Center

Older surgical patients care demands for multidisciplinary research to deepen the understanding of the needs of the aged. This study aimed to develop a strategic plan for the Perioperative Geriatric Excellent Research Center. The World Café methodology was employed to facilitate constructive dialogue. Consensus meetings were subsequently held to formulate a strategic plan. Twenty participants attended the seminar focused on using multidisciplinary teams to improve the quality of life of the elderly after surgery. They resolved that the infrastructure should be modified to facilitate the production of quality publications and encourage research implementation. Moreover, the participants productively explored common misunderstandings and disputes regarding authorship and resource management within multidisciplinary research teams. A strategic plan and schematic organisational structure were drafted. In conclusion, world Café’s simple yet powerful format empowered participants to discuss critical issues. The development of the strategic plan through group collaboration greatly aided the team in moving forwards