Data Collection Methods

Over the last 5 - 10 years, Electronic Data Capture (EDC) has matured from an interesting data collection technique into one of the major methods for collecting data in clinical studies. Reality dictates, however, that the majority of clinical studies still uses some form of paper Case Record Forms (CRFs). With all the 'evidence' that EDC allows to cut down on costs for handling of Queries and might reduce the time between Last Patient Visit and Study Closure, one might wonder why not most or all of the studies are EDC based.
There are several reason why often a form of paper collection is being used. In some cases, there might be technical problems which prohibit or restrict direct internet access, thus blocking EDC. Or an investigator is not willing to use EDC and prefers to work with a paper CRF. Or part of the clinical data is collected directly from the patient, thus requiring a paper Form. Or perhaps your study budget does not allow to run a study in EDC mode.

Thorin - DataFax - Data Collection Methods - EDC

With the release of its latest version, DataFax has been able to incorporate both Electronic Data Capture (EDC) and/or CRF image collection into its repertoire of collection methods. And the best of it is, you don't need to decide upfront which method to use. DataFax uses the same Database Design and even the same Edit Checks to handle data coming in through EDC or through CRFs forms which have been faxed in or send in by e-mail.
As a result, and without much additional effort, DataFax can handle the full range of data collection possibilities like:

studies where all data is collected by using EDC
all sites in a study use EDC, though some data is collected using paper Forms
most of the sites in a study use EDC, though some sites are using paper CRFs
some studies are EDC based, other studies are paper CRF based
studies where all data is collected by using paper CRFs

As a further efficiency improvement, DataFax will also be able to handle CRF images which are generated by using a Digital Pen in combination with ‘digital paper’. If you want to know more about this intriguing technique, please follow this link to learn more on how the Digital Pen & Paper can easily be integrated in the DataFax workflow.

Online Demo

An Online Demo is the best way to get a more indepth understanding of DataFax. By using GoToMeeting, we are able to display DataFax on one or more PC's in your office, while audio is provided by phone.

Thus we are able to interact with you and show you a 'life answer' to any of your questions.

To request an online Demo: Thorin contact page