The Future of Clinical Trials: Q&A with Rick Greenfield, CEO of RealTime

As we segue into a new year, one can’t help but wonder what the future of the clinical research industry looks like. Cutting-edge clinical trial software, research advancements, and other breakthroughs have proven to shape the clinical research industry that we know today. In a Q&A with Rick Greenfield, CEO of RealTime Software Solutions, we discuss the future of clinical trial software and how RealTime is helping to meet these changes.

Question: How is RealTime adapting to the changing industry?

Rick: RealTime has developed solutions that are adaptable for any organization. Whether you are at the site, site network, hospital, university, sponsor or CRO, RealTime is developing advanced systems to improve processes and efficiencies for the clinical research industry from top-to-bottom. We make it a top priority to listen to the feedback of our customers, who guide our development roadmap and help us meet the growing needs of the industry.

Question: What can we expect from RealTime in 2020?

Rick: Lots of exciting things! I like to keep the competition guessing, so I can’t disclose the long-term goals, but short-term, we will be enhancing all of our products substantially this year.  We also have new systems coming that, I believe, will be industry game-changers.  Current and Future RealTime customers have a lot to look forward to.  So basically… stay tuned!

Question: Where do you see the clinical research industry headed?

Rick: There is a shift happening in the industry as well as a lot of uncertainty as to where things are headed and how we will all be affected by those changes. There is no question that we are moving rapidly towards paperless systems.  I also believe whole-heartedly that site-based systems for site-based functions are essential to a successful operating model.  Sites need standardization and systems that ultimately cater to their needs.  Sponsor-based, or top-down systems, meant to take over a site-based function, are disruptive to good processes, quality, efficiency, and ultimately, data integrity and patient safety.  We have seen the top-down approach fail time-and-time again, but we are seeing huge successes with site-based systems that connect up to Sponsor/CRO systems.  I believe this is the model that everyone collectively must embrace, or they will end up watching it happen before their eyes.  Those that get on board early can be a part of building something truly transformational, which will include the right solutions and maximum benefits for all parties involved.

A little philosophical, I know, but I am convinced of this path to a streamlined industry.  It leads us to the ultimate in virtual/decentralized clinical trials and efficiencies that we have only dreamt of to-date.

The shift has begun! With 2020 upon us, what kind of expectations do you have for your business? If you’re interested in learning more about RealTime Software Solutions, contact us today!

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