Device validation plays an integral role in any digital clinical trial. ePRO and eCOA firms can spend months researching and sourcing devices uniquely suited for a specific trial. After developing a shortlist, internal data collection teams get to work, putting each digital option through a rigorous testing process to confirm relevant certifications, specifications, and functionality to support both client and patient needs.
Data Collection Firms Should Go Beyond Performance When Selecting a Clinical Trial Device
The costs and importance of a clinical trial make it critical for eCOA and ePRO providers to thoroughly and strategically assess device options. However, technology performance isn’t the only consideration throughout the evaluation process. Many data collection teams assume that the device they select will be ready and waiting for them at the end of the validation. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Rapidly evolving technologies and shifting marketplace trends often prompt manufacturers to force older devices to go “End of Life” (EOL) to keep pace with newer innovation and consumer demand. As a result, data collection firms must carefully consider performance, availability, and lifecycle expectations to source the best device option.
End of Life Doesn’t Mean End of the Road for Clinical Trial Devices
Partnering with a clinical trial device specialist can help breathe new life into End of Life device testing and procurement. A team that specializes in global sourcing and purchasing of clinical trial smartphones and tablets offers several significant benefits when managing technology lifecycle, including:
Stay Ahead of Marketplace Shifts and Updates
Most data collection teams don’t have the resources or bandwidth needed to keep up with the latest equipment developments, adaptations, and launches. An experienced device distributor the extensive industry insight needed to keep you informed of any updates that may impact current projects.
Determine Manufacturing Timeline
An EoL classification does not mean production halts immediately. Typically, manufacturers use a designated production end date to phase a device out of the marketplace gradually. Device specialists not only pinpoint the planned production timeline but also negotiate extensions based on project requirements, enabling eCOA and ePRO teams to reconcile their sponsors’ upcoming initiatives with forecasted hardware production.
Vetted Global Network
Sourcing EoL devices can be challenging for data collection teams. Some firms find themselves struggling to procure what’s needed to eliminate testing gaps. Worse yet, some teams find a potential supply channel—only to realize it’s a different model/variant than what’s currently being used and may comprise data collection or analytics. A qualified device specialist has a well-established, vetted network of global vendors and manufacturers. They can quickly leverage their professional relationships to identify an authentic product supply channel as well as eliminate hardware variants that could jeopardize trial intelligence.
Customized Procurement Solutions
Perhaps the biggest benefit of partnering with a trusted clinical trial device distributor? Customized procurement strategies and solutions based on expected product lifecycle and availability. Your provider will serve as an extension of your team, collaborating with stakeholders on the existing and forecasted pipeline. Innovative device specialists will use their industry expertise to create a tactical and logistical procurement approach for equipment that may go EOL before a clinical trial ends.
Contact Vessel Today
Identifying potential device lifecycle obstacles before the project launch can reduce trial risk and optimize results. Contact Vessel today to learn more about how our strategic procurement approach can power your digital clinical trials, from start to finish.