Advanced technology such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and natural language processing is penetrating and spreading healthcare product development, while use of eSource and digital devices supports digital data flow and suggests a new clinical trial methodology. Standardization to CDISC is envisioned by 2020 upon full implementation of eData submission, and, combined with the Common Protocol Template proposal, is also helping to lead the standardization and digitalization of end-to-end data flow.

Investigator-initiated trials and collaboration between academia and industry continue to increase as advanced and translational medical technologies such as regenerative and genetic medicine are more deeply incorporated into medical practice in Japan. The impact of these advanced technologies on approaches to drug and device development remains undetermined.

Are clinical data managers (CDMs) ready to ensure the quality of their data through Quality by Design (QbD) as ICH E6(R2) and E8 are being implemented and the “GCP Revolution” is openly discussed? What actions must CDMs take to extend the Risk-Based Approach from clinical trial design to clinical trial reporting and beyond, to post-market safety monitoring? Our overall theme Clinical Data Management in New Era: Enhance Data Reliability and Utilization to Adapt to Renovation reflects the fact the range of clinical trial types and data sources are rapidly expanding. We will collaboratively discuss how CDMs can enhance data reliability and utilization for various clinical trial designs and data sources throughout the drug and/or device product lifecycle, including post-market monitoring. It aims to improve the quality of both clinical research and clinical data management in Japan, and will provide numerous opportunities for networking and information exchange among industry, government, and academia.