Development of a protocol complexity tool: a framework designed to stimulate discussion and simplify study design

We have developed a Protocol Complexity Tool to objectively measure the complexity of a study protocol consistently and transparently. The PCT is capable of driving simplification, enhancing collaboration, and creating additional confidence in trial designs. In the future, we envision the tool will support earlier discussions to develop protocols that are simpler to execute and more cost-effective.

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Publication Details

Journal
BMC Medical Research Methodology
Published
2025-08-29
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12874-025-02652-9
Primary Topic
Statistical Methods in Clinical Trials
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00

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article

Development of a protocol complexity tool: a framework designed to stimulate discussion and simplify study design

Ioannis Psallidas, Gabriela Luporini Saraiva, Bruce Potter, Bartholomeus J.A. Willigers et al.
BMC Medical Research Methodology
Statistical Methods in Clinical Trials
article

Development of a protocol complexity tool: a framework designed to stimulate discussion and simplify study design

Ioannis Psallidas, Gabriela Luporini Saraiva, Bruce Potter, Bartholomeus J.A. Willigers, Agata E Wiesiolek, Alina Pszczółkowska, Cecilia Kristensson, Veronica Presz
article en

Abstract

We have developed a Protocol Complexity Tool to objectively measure the complexity of a study protocol consistently and transparently. The PCT is capable of driving simplification, enhancing collaboration, and creating additional confidence in trial designs. In the future, we envision the tool will support earlier discussions to develop protocols that are simpler to execute and more cost-effective.

BMC Medical Research MethodologyVol. 25(1)
AstraZeneca (United Kingdom) (GB), AstraZeneca (Switzerland) (CH), AstraZeneca (Poland) (PL), AstraZeneca (Finland) (FI), AstraZeneca (Italy) (IT), AstraZeneca (Spain) (ES), AstraZeneca (Canada) (CA)
AstraZeneca
Openalex Percentile: Top 78%
Statistical Methods in Clinical Trials
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