Author: Asher Alt, Marketing Specialist, (OTT)
Most outgoing data use agreements (DUAs) leaving Emory are classified as low-risk. To streamline and expedite their processing times, OTT implemented a new strategy earlier this year: giving Emory PIs and research teams control of executing these types of contracts.
This is a win-win for everyone: More control for researchers, less clutter for OTT, and faster processing timelines for all. We highly encourage you to try out this new process and see why it’s better than before.
The background
Last year, the Office of Technology Transfer started handling all outgoing DUAs for Emory University. While this increased the number of contracts for OTT, it simplified the process and put DUAs in the hands of people who specialize in the issues involved in this kind of contract.
Low-risk DUAs are typically easy to process, but they can fill up our pipeline quickly. This simplified approach reduces cycle time and gives PIs and their research teams more control over the timeline. As long as we receive complete and accurate packages from our faculty partners – which includes the faculty member’s attestations – we can get their DUAs out the door in around 1-2 days.
The process is based off an existing model in use at Massachusetts General Brigham, where it’s been utilized to great effect. As more PIs adopt this process here at Emory, we can achieve similar results, helping researchers focus less on paperwork and more on their research.
The improved process
Giving PIs and research teams more control over the timeline will involve collaboration between OTT, ORA, and our faculty partners. Below is the new, seven-step process for outgoing low-risk DUAs.
- PI obtains prior IRB review and approval (if applicable).
- PI reviews the low-risk documentation to assure the subject data meets the low-risk criteria.
- PI completes DUA online training, continuing to refresh tri-annually.
- PI completes the DUA template pre-approved by OTT.
- PI/Research team sends completed DUA template to data recipient for signature.
- PI completes attestation form and submits along with the partially executed agreement for signature by OTT (via contractConnect portal).
- OTT executes DUA and provides a fully executed copy to all parties.
There is no change to the process of handling all other DUAs.
Try it for yourself
Since launching this process in May, the adoption rate has been slow. We understand that new processes can be tedious to learn, which is why we’ve provided a step-by-step guide for it on the OTT website. There, you’ll also find helpful criteria for low-risk DUAs, answers to FAQs about the process, and pre-approved DUA templates. Finally, the DUA Training for PIs is now on Brainier, and it will take fewer than 30 minutes to complete. Only PIs are eligible for the training and to submit attestations.
Want more control over the timeline and shorter turnaround times? OTT highly encourages you to dive into the outgoing, low-risk DUA process.