Productized Rules = Death of Custom Functions

In the fast-paced world of Electronic Data Capture (EDC) systems, efficiency and speed are paramount. For years, the development of study databases has been a complex process, with writing rules, edit checks, and corresponding test scripts consuming a significant amount of time. However, a transformative shift is underway, driven by the advent of productized rules. This blog post explores how productized rules are poised to revolutionize the EDC landscape, specifically by diminishing the need for custom functions.

Introduction

Building a study database traditionally involves a laborious process of coding custom functions to implement edit checks and data validation rules. This approach is not only time-consuming but also prone to errors and requires specialized coding skills. Imagine a world where you can configure most edit checks directly within the system using a powerful rules engine. This is the promise of productized rules.

Veeva is at the forefront of this transformation, offering an advanced study design environment where users can configure edit checks and use a powerful rules engine. This innovative approach significantly reduces the reliance on custom functions, streamlining the build process and accelerating study timelines. This shift empowers users to focus on the study design and data analysis, rather than getting bogged down in intricate coding.

The Problem with Custom Functions

Let’s delve deeper into why custom functions have been a bottleneck in EDC system development:

• Time-Consuming: Writing, testing, and debugging custom functions takes a considerable amount of time.
• Requires Specialized Skills: Developers with specific coding expertise are required, increasing project costs.
• Error-Prone: The complexity of custom code can lead to errors that are difficult to identify and fix.
• Maintenance Challenges: Maintaining and updating custom functions over time adds to the long-term cost and effort.

Productized Rules: The Game Changer

Productized rules offer a refreshing alternative, allowing you to configure rules and edit checks directly within the system. Here’s how they are transforming the landscape:

• Simplified Configuration: Users can easily define rules using a user-friendly interface, eliminating the need for extensive coding.
• Faster Implementation: The configuration-based approach significantly accelerates the build process.
• Reduced Errors: Productized rules are pre-tested and validated, minimizing the risk of errors.
• Improved Efficiency: Study teams can focus on study design and data analysis rather than complex coding tasks.

Benefits of Embracing Productized Rules

By shifting to productized rules, you unlock a wealth of benefits:

• Faster Study Builds: Reduce the time it takes to build and deploy your studies.
• Reduced Costs: Lower the need for specialized coding resources and decrease development time.
• Enhanced Data Quality: Minimize errors and improve the accuracy of your data.
• Increased Agility: Adapt quickly to changing study requirements.
• Improved Collaboration: Enable greater collaboration between study teams and IT departments.

Tips for Transitioning to Productized Rules

To ensure a smooth transition, consider the following:

• Assess Your Current Needs: Evaluate your current use of custom functions and identify areas where productized rules can be applied.
• Training and Support: Provide training to your team on how to effectively use the new rules engine.
• Pilot Projects: Start with pilot projects to gain experience and build confidence.
• Phased Implementation: Implement productized rules in phases to minimize disruption and allow for adjustments.
• Leverage Vendor Expertise: Collaborate with your EDC system provider to access their knowledge and support.

Conclusion

The shift towards productized rules represents a significant evolution in EDC system development. By embracing this approach, you can dramatically improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance data quality. As the industry moves away from custom functions, the future of EDC lies in streamlined, user-friendly solutions that empower you to focus on what matters most: conducting successful clinical trials. This is more than just a trend; it’s a paradigm shift towards a more efficient and effective future.

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