In this report, we focus on how companies can reach 2020 in a position to benefit from more favourable conditions thereafter.

The pharmaceutical industry is at a critical juncture. The tools to develop remarkable new medicines are materialising, demand for its products is increasing and the barriers to free trade are falling. But pharma also faces major economic and operational challenges, if it’s to capitalise on these opportunities and create more value for healthcare payers, providers and patients.

Many of the conditions that will determine what happens in 2020 are already in place. Most of the products that will be launched are already in the pipeline; the processes being used to develop them are similar to those used for the past 10 years; the prevailing management culture remains that of the late 20th century; and a demanding commercial environment looks set to continue.

So, what are the most important decisions senior management will need to make?