This area focuses on the importance of community involvement at all levels and at critical milestones in study development and implementation. Included in the scope of this advisory group is how to evaluate the ways the network research enterprise: 1) addresses questions of relevance to the communities and trial participants; 2) produces results (including answers to questions) that may lead to preventions and treatments that can practically and affordably be made available to the study participants and their communities; and 3) provides adequate support for community participation and education.

This area focuses on how the networks specifically, and the DAIDS HIV clinical research enterprise as a whole, identify their research priorities, how they identify prevention and treatment strategies for HIV/AIDS leading to fewer new infections, and how their efforts assure progress on the pathway to reduced morbidity and mortality. Included in the scope of this advisory group is how to evaluate aspects of the pipeline through which each study passes, starting with the setting of the scientific agenda, progressing through study implementation, dissemination and impact.

This area focuses on the collaboration and communication within and between networks and between DAIDS and the networks and sites. Included in the scope of this advisory group is how to evaluate: 1) collaboration activities at the scientific and operational levels; 2) the restructuring principles of efficiency, coordination, and integration; 3) the function of the HANC office; and 4) the coordination and maximization of research opportunities.