Electronic data capture (EDC) systems are now the backbone of clinical research. Whether running a single site, investigator-led study or a multinational trial, data integrity and operational efficiency depend heavily on the system selected. Yet the EDC marketplace is complex. Vendors range from simple entry-level tools that promise low cost and speed, to enterprise-scale platforms with sophisticated features but steep learning curves. Decision makers face the risk of underestimating hidden costs, overvaluing “nice-to-have” features, or overlooking infrastructure considerations that only surface after go-live.
This white paper provides sponsors, CROs, and academic institutions with a practical framework for evaluating EDC solutions. It highlights four must-have capabilities every buyer should look for and four red flags to avoid, supported by real-world scenarios and lessons learned from across the industry.
The goal: to help clinical teams make confident, future-proof decisions that support data quality, compliance, and cost control throughout the lifecycle of their studies.
