Faster, Smarter Start-Up: Launch Trials Without Bottlenecks

By Ben Baumann

Clinical trial start-up delays are a major driver of cost and inefficiency, with 80% of studies facing recruitment problems, 90% exceeding initial timelines, and many sites failing to enroll sufficient patients. Each day of delay can cost sponsors between $600,000 and $8 million. Common bottlenecks—such as protracted contract negotiations, complex regulatory approvals, late technology adoption, and lack of coordination across stakeholders—undermine site readiness and slow patient access to innovative therapies.

To address these challenges, sponsors and sites are adopting best practices supported by digital tools. Standardized documentation, centralized training, and proactive site-sponsor communication streamline processes, while data-driven recruitment strategies improve enrollment efficiency. Site-friendly platforms like OpenClinica’s EDC, eConsent, Randomize, and Recruit accelerate timelines through intuitive workflows, real-time collaboration, and targeted patient outreach. By pairing proven practices with modern technology, trials reduce start-up delays, cut costs, and ensure treatments reach patients faster.