Remote data collection has become a key part of modern clinical trials, especially as studies become decentralized. However, digital health platforms vary in their capabilities, and choosing the right one can impact data quality, patient adherence, and the overall success of a trial.
Research teams need tools that do more than collect vital signs. From wearable devices to study dashboards, every part of the system should support site workflows, meet regulatory standards, and make participation as straightforward as possible for patients.
The most important job of any remote monitoring technology is to collect accurate and consistent data. Whether a study focuses on heart rate, temperature, blood pressure, or sleep, the system must reliably capture key metrics and ensure the data is usable across sites and populations.
But device quality alone isn’t enough. Supporting technology, including mobile apps and dashboards, must work together to track device usage, verify data uploads, and help sites troubleshoot issues in real time.
Platforms should also allow for different types of data, including passive monitoring (like vital signs), active inputs (like surveys), and flexible timing protocols. When research teams have visibility into what’s being collected, they can quickly identify gaps and act before they impact results.
Even the best device won’t deliver usable data if patients don’t wear it correctly or at all. And not every participant has the same level of comfort with technology. When tools are confusing or support is limited, participants can stop using the device and following study protocols.
Technology should minimize barriers. For example, Vivalink provides pre-provisioned kits that arrive fully charged and ready to use with the device, mobile phone, app, and all necessary supplies packaged together. The app interface is simple and locked down, so participants only see what they need to complete the study tasks.
Improving the initial experience with the device goes a long way. When participants understand what to do and feel confident using the device, they’re more likely to stay engaged and adhere to protocol throughout the study.
Clinical trials, specifically remote ones, rely on a network of sponsors, CROs, sites, and vendors. Each group has distinct roles and operational needs. The platform should support that ecosystem by providing the right level of access, integration, and visibility across groups.
Technology should work across all levels of a study. Site coordinators need dashboards to monitor adherence and flag device issues early. At the same time, sponsors need visibility across sites to track performance trends and identify where support is needed.
Language localization, country-specific charging kits, and custom workflows help global teams manage trials without reinventing the process every time. Whether a study involves one site or dozens, the platform should make it easy to onboard, support, and expand.
Every trial has its own protocol, timeline, and data requirements. The technology should be flexible enough to support that structure without adding complexity for the site or participants.
Researchers benefit most from a platform that can be tailored to the needs of each study. Some trials may only need a single device. For example, an oncology study monitoring neutropenic fever might rely on a continuous temperature patch. Others, like a rare disease study focused on Rett syndrome, may require multiple devices to track heart rate, respiration, temperature, and sleep around the clock.
Regardless of how many devices a study uses, when the technology can align with the protocol, it reduces friction for both sites and participants. Discover how Vivalink’s wearable devices and RPM platform are built to support the specific needs of each study.