REDCap has a vast range of functionality, much of which has been tested and utilised by the Newcastle Research Informatics Team. Some of these functions include:

Data capture. This includes the design and use of forms/CRFs with appropriate validation, ensuring high data quality. Projects can be set up longitudinally if necessary, to collect standardised data at specific time points throughout the study.

Multi-site projects. This allows logged-in users to automatically tag data to their own site, and ensures they are only able to see data belonging to their own site.

Reporting. Table-based and graphical reporting, including dashboards, allows an instant snapshot of the data held within your project. A dedicated data quality area lets you monitor the study for specific criteria, and raise queries within the system.

Randomisation. REDCap can be used to implement a randomisation model, allowing participants to be randomised into a study based on defined parameters at the simple click of a button.

Online questionnaires (surveys). Questionnaires can be sent to participants to complete remotely, with a customisable interface geared towards user-friendliness. Data will automatically feed back into REDCap, keeping your entire dataset in one place. Advanced logic can be implemented to automatically send these questionnaires at specific time points or based on specific criteria.

Twilio SMS messaging. SMS messages can be used to send questionnaire links and reminders to a participant’s phone. REDCap adapts to the device it is opened on, so becomes touch-screen friendly for participants accessing via a touch-enabled device.

Electronic Consent. REDCap can be used to consent participants into a study electronically either during a visit or remotely. The eConsent workflow can be customised to suit the needs of each study, including the display of the PIF, counter-signatures, self-consent and automatic PDF generation. Newcastle Hospitals teams working on a Newcastle REDCap project can purchase standard tablets to use for face-to-face electronic consent (if their project design includes eConsent).

Multi-lingual module. Alternate languages can be inserted into a REDCap project, giving staff or participants the choice of a different language when accessing and entering data into the system.

REDCap app. A REDCap app is available for devices in remote locations where an internet connection is unavailable. Data can be held locally on-device and synced back to the REDCap server at a later time.