I have just recently started a position with my institution and so I am new to using the Animal Oversight module (from a different vendor's software) and am in the process of learning my way through it.
Initial observations of Animal Oversight (IACUC):
Challenges;
- The system does not seem to differentiate between closed, lapsed, or suspended protocols. (it calls all of these items "expired").
- The system seems to require the use of developed tables and "dictionaries" and so if the institution or committee is not inclined to develop these you may lose functionality.
- There does not seem to be any canned metric reporting or other similar items currently and finding the data/developing maps is a labor intensive process by someone skilled in IT.
- There does not seem to be any concern reporting or inspection tools (PAM, Semi-annual) at this time inside the software.
Strengths;
- Once created, the dictionaries and tables for things like drugs and surgery/procedure types are easy for the PIs to click and use
- The review process is moderately straightforward and timestamped so that you can see the work flow and timelines.
- The smart form itself is easy to read and covers the essentials for protocol creation and review.
- There are training materials and development tools available.
- Using the cloud services, you do not have to worry about managing the database on site.
Migration Considerations:
As one who has been involved in migrating from one system to another, the migration process and how you carry over the data into the new system is something to really spend some time and consideration on. If at all possible, I would encourage one to migrate over time moving into the new system during one's three year renewal or new protocols. If that isn't possible, you will either need to have your tables/dictionaries ready before migration begins or you will need to "best fit it" initially and then spend a moderate amount of time editing and reviewing the protocols during their next major amendment or three year renewal. Depending on your number of protocols, this migration process while managing normal business may be a major undertaking requiring additional resources to complete. (in my previous experience we were trying to migrate ~500 protocols while still doing reviews and amendments and managing the other office functions)
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Guy Wiles
Director, IACUC
Augusta University
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Original Message:
Sent: 09-07-2022 11:24
From: Brittnie Sell
Subject: Feedback on IRB/IACUC Modules
Hi Everyone!
Currently my institution uses Cayuse 424 & SP, but we are considering adding on the Cayuse modules for IRB & IACUC. Those are currently run through a different platform.
As we evaluate the possible transition, we would very much appreciate some feedback from those who interact with those specific modules. Some of the things we would like to know are below, but any feedback is appreciated.
- Benefits of having IRB & IACUC in the same system as proposals
- Feedback on the ease of usability from administrators & faculty sides.
- If you came from another platform- anything you wished you would have known or considered when making the transition (logistically or otherwise).
Feel free to respond here or email me directly at basell2@bsu.edu.
Thanks!
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Brittnie Sell
Grant Manager
Ball State University
basell2@bsu.edu
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