Randomization is a methodology or process used in research to help ensure quality scientific outcomes. Specifically, randomization is the process of assigning individuals to groups at random. This technique prevents bias of results and not only determines what clinical treatments subjects receive, but how the results are analyzed at the end of the study.
As part of its core services, the Clinical Research Program provides assistance to researchers that use randomization in their research protocols. The Program will design randomizations, create schemes and train investigators to employ them in practice. These schemes vary tremendously in sophistication and are based generally on study design and protocol complexity.
The CRP employs scientific software developed by the CRIT to support various randomization techniques and generate study-specific allocations. The CRP Biostatistics Core and CRIT team have worked collaboratively to develop Web-based software that facilitates creating randomizations. This new software not only generates treatment assignments and subject identification numbers, but also produces ready-made study materials. These materials include subject logs, study labels and data sets, which may be employed directly in study operations