PROs and Data Collection

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2. Paper CRFs

Paper CRFs are designed for entering handwritten data. They are cheap to produce and allow the creation of direct copies through carbonless copy papers and faxing. Through new technology like optical character recognition (OCR) computers are able to ‘read’ the data written by the staff and to enter them automatically into a database.

Advantages

  • Low-tech - can be accessed anytime without a computer.
  • Easier to correct if problems are discovered during study conduct.
Disadvantages

  • Volume of paper to store during and after the study.
  • No automatic warnings concerning faulty data entry.
  • Additional step required to enter data into database (one more step where errors could be made).