Page Comparison

Table of Contents

Overview

Forms (e.g., CRF's, Questionnaires, Instruments) in StudyTRAX are referred to as Variable Groups.  The forms define the variables/questions and the layout.  The form designer supports nearly all imaginable for layout and design requirements, anything that can be done on the web can be done with StudyTRAX forms.

...

• Configurable look/layout of the form
• Leverage JavaScript for programmable logic
• Set up once and use at multiple subject visits
• Easily copy to another study
• Missing Values can be defined
• Perform validation on values 
   on values  

Preparing for Analysis

Keep in mind that StudyTRAX automatically recodes variables over time in Data Sets.  Thus, forms are created ONCE and then assigned to as many encounters (e.g., baseline, week 1, etc.).  Then, upon export (statistical package, spreadsheet), variables are automatically recoded. 

For instance, a form with one variable called weight collected at baseline, month 1, month 2, etc.  The form would only be created once, but assigned to multiple data collection points.  The dataset export has two layout options, both automatically handled (see image).

Image Added

What to Consider

• Review the meaning of Universal Subject Variables, Project Variables, and Encounter Variables.
• Universal Subject Variables
  • Plan the variables that will be Universal Subject Variables. These variables are used across all projects. Subjects enrolled in subsequent projects will not need their universal subject variables re-entered. Individual projects can opt out of viewing any of the Universal Subject Variables.
• Project Variables
  • It is recommended to use a discontinuation date in your project.  This will keep subjects who are no longer actively participating in the project from showing up on the Subjects Due list and their Subject Overview page will indicate the subject is discontinued
• Encounter Variables
  • A variable group that will be collected on multiple occurrences only needs to be created one time. The intervals determine the data collection schedule and the same variable group can be collected on multiple intervals.
• Variables
  • When creating a variable, be sure the variable type is correct. The variable type cannot be changed once data is collected. A common error is to use a text type variable instead of a numeric type variable.

  • A minimum and maximum allowed value can be entered for numeric variables. 

    Tip
    Be sure to set up this validation before any data is entered as it can not be set up or tightened after data entry has started

  • How can the data burden be minimized?
    • Variable defaults
    • Calculated variables
    • Rather than setting up a text variable consider whether a pick-list can be used with one option being "Other".  Selecting other can trigger a text box to display.
  • Determine if any numeric or categorical variables need missing values defined
  • Think about whether a variable should be not required or required.  If required, should a value be mandatory for data entry?
• Variable Groups
  • Plan what the form should look like
  • Think about the design and layout options that best facilitate data entry
  • If subjects will enter data, are there any special needs (e.g. sound, large fonts, etc.)?
  • Use the Layout tab's Default Prompt Width and Default Answer Width to accomodate the majority of the variables' widths
  • Before copying variables, verify the setup of the variable to be copied is correct to minimize changes
  • The *Layout *tab of the Variable Group Update page can be used to customize the form (e.g., colors, layout of questions, adding images)
  • Will there be a paper source?  If so, will data be double data entered and which variables?
  • Be sure to import and leverage existing forms already set up on your system and the StudyTRAX Sharing Forms site

...