nih informed consent authoring tool

Beta Version – Pilot phase

The goalsEnforce a standardized consent template with some

flexibility.Allow insertion of language from NIH ProtoMechanics,

IRBs, and individuals.Provide real-time reading level, reading difficulty, and

suggestions for improving difficult language.

The workflow

Web-based application

Document dashboard

Manage your consent documents through

the dashboard interface.

Consent title Protocol Title

Consent editor

Edit your consent documents

on-line

Consent format

Add content to sections of the consent by

clicking on “answer question”

Format flexibility

Omit sections that do not pertain to your

study.

Rich-text editor

Edit your documents with a “MS Word – like”

editor

Insert standard language

Pre-approved IRB/Inst. language can

be inserted into a consent document.

Readability analysis

The integrated readability tool identifies grade

level and difficult words.

Highlighted text is considered difficult

to read.

Word suggestions

Difficult words and the suggested

replacements are provided. Replacement

is left to the author.

Readability reviewReadability is assessed on a

per-section basis.

Print. Download. Done.

Print or download your consent document to your computer once

you are finished.

For more info…Contact Brian Chamberlain at:

b-chamberlain@northwestern.edu

The system is still in development so feel free to send

comments, suggestions, and/or feedback.