3 Reasons Sponsors Should Own The RTSM Vendor Relationship

By Ryan Keane, Founder and CEO, Korio

Clinical trials are complex ecosystems where even minor logistical delays can jeopardize patient safety and data integrity. While outsourcing clinical development functions to a CRO is standard practice, delegating the selection and management of Randomization and Trial Supply Management (RTSM) can create unintended hurdles. When managed through an intermediary, critical troubleshooting—such as resolving site shipments or medication access—frequently devolves into a "game of telephone," delaying resolutions when hours matter most.

By maintaining a direct relationship with specialized partners, sponsors ensure a more nuanced translation of their protocol into the system’s design. This specialized focus helps navigate the intricate intersections of drug dispensing, depot management, and complex data integrations. Furthermore, reducing the layers of communication significantly lowers the risk of accidental unblinding, protecting the trial’s overall integrity. Prioritizing technical expertise over the convenience of a bundled service package ensures that the technology accurately reflects the study's unique complexities, allowing clinical teams to focus on scientific progress rather than navigating vendor friction.