In early 2022, NIH’s National Library of Medicine (NLM) introduced a new beta version of ClinicalTrials.gov, a website and online database providing clinical research studies and results to the public, researchers, and healthcare professionals. For a general overview and FAQ, go to About Clinical Trials.gov.
Purpose and Implementation of the Beta Launch
NLM’s goal for the modernization effort is to update the website with improved functionality and efficiency. The beta sites will function in parallel to current systems to allow NLM to add additional features without disrupting current user experience.
The goals of the beta release of the ClinicalTrials.gov site and the Protocol Registration and Results System (PRS) components are to:
- Introduce users to new technology platforms and evaluate their real-world performance.
- Provide foundational features that will be expanded over time.
- Provide PRS users with improved functionality to manage their record portfolios and workflows.
- Collect user input to inform future development activities.
Highlights of the Beta PRS Release
Study sponsors and investigators provide information to ClinicalTrials.gov and are responsible for ensuring their studies meet relevant laws and regulations. The beta release of PRS will make the submission process more intuitive to help users meet existing reporting requirements.
The first beta PRS release includes new workflow and portfolio management features such as customizable display and multiple download options to enhance efficiency and save time.
Highlights of the Beta ClinicalTrials.gov Release
NLM’s modernization effort has implemented a responsive site design that better supports mobile device users and other basic features, with more features to be added over time based on user feedback.
Some highlights of the beta ClinicalTrials.gov release include:
- Redesigned home page and search feature
- Search results page with updated filter functionality
- New study record design with improved web-based mapping application
For a full description of new features, read the blog post ClinicalTrials.gov Modernization Effort: Beta Releases Now Available on NLM Musings from the Mezzanine.
NLM’s recorded demonstration ClinicalTrials.gov Protocol Registration and Results System (PRS) Beta Preview – December 2021 previews PRS Beta, explains the release goals, and displays its functions.