With the advent of cost-effective solutions and the ready availability, accessibility and fast speed of internet, clinical trial management systems have been able to streamline the whole research process and occupied a central space in the investigator markets. The advancements in technology have drastically simplified the whole process. Tasks which were once considered as daunting and time-consuming have now become relatively cheaper and straightforward. However, this does not mean that selecting the right CDMS is the same as selecting any low-cost solution available. It requires establishing your needs and then finding the correct solution with capabilities that match your requirements. This article enlists five important things to look for in a CDMS.

Features VS Capabilities

Vendors can simply check off the boxes given next to the list of features provided by their solutions. However, one must realize the difference between the features of a solution and its capabilities to meet the needs of the user. For example, a system may have the feature of exporting data to post-study analysis but it may be able to generate only comma separated files which have to be manipulated for use in other purposes.

Workflow VS Functional Approach

A CDMS may have all the features and capabilities you require to manage your research and trials effectively. However, it is quite possible that it is not consistent with your workflow methodology, i.e., it fulfills all the functions it is supposed to perform but the data is updated in long intervals which are insufficient for the workflow of the trial.

Communication and Reporting

In clinical trial management, regular and effective communication is essential. The research team, third parties, patients, and sponsors must be informed of the proceedings and methodology of the research. An efficient CDMS must have communication tools built in along with the reporting capabilities and these tools must integrate voice, email, data or personal exchanges that occur during the regular activities.

Price VS Cost

Pricing for CDMS varies considerably, ranging from inexpensive hosted solutions to the expensive installed systems. Pricing differs significantly even within the hosted and installed solutions. However, it is not necessary that the more expensive systems entail more costs. The implementation costs of CDMS vary from 2 to 10 times the price of the hardware and license. One must always take into account all these costs such as the cost of implementation, additional charges, the time taken to implement the solution, etc. while making a decision.

Present VS Future Standards

Changes are inevitable in any field. And especially in the field of clinical research, continuous evolution and innovation lead to the development of new standards, requirements, and regulations which must be followed by all researchers and investigators. These emerging, as well as future requirements, will not only include technology but also patient records, identification, reporting, security, and other standards. Your CDMS must be capable of satisfying the present needs as well as addressing these emerging needs.

Data+ provides you a Clinical Trial Management System which is highly comprehensive, intuitive and user-friendly compared to its competitors. The system is designed to help you capture more data, collaborate and manage your studies using efficient and reliable software solutions.