Our Efforts to be Green
Human research is a federal laden process but that doesn't mean we have to kill trees! Our office has started and will continue to simplify processes ( Continuous Quality Improvement) and reduce paper (Green Efforts).
Request for Modifications to Documents
In the past the HRPO has asked for modified documents to be submitted in two copies (one with changes in italics and bold; the other a "clean" copy.)
Now we are asking that modifications be submitted electronically using Word's Track Changes option. This allows us to see what information has changed in a simple format. If approved, the HRPO will accept all changes and use this as a "clean" copy.
For those of you not familiar with Track Changes, Microsoft has
some great tutorials (be aware there is sound with these
tutorials):
Track Change Tutorial For 2003 Users ;
Track Change Tutorial For 2007/Vista Users
IRB Committees Switching to Electronic Review
In the past Committee meetings meant using over 5,000 pieces of paper per meeting.
Working with the HSC Technology Support, we are currently piloting a process that:
- Negates the use of any paper
- Has a secure, on-line home for the packet
- Allows the members access to the packet earlier
- Saves money in deliveries, copies and copy supplies