The Breaking Point: Why We’re Rethinking RTSM in Clinical Trials

After 20 years working with RTSM in clinical trials, we’ve seen a recurring theme: the systems designed to help us often become our biggest hurdles.

In theory, the moving parts of a trial shouldn't be technically overwhelming. Yet, for decades, the industry has struggled with RTSM (Randomization and Trial Supply Management) systems that are rigid, bloated, and painfully slow.

Here is why the status quo is failing—and how we are building a better way forward.

The Trap of System Bloat

I (Becky Stone, Head of Product) remember serving as a trial lead on the sponsor side for a Phase 2 study. As is common in clinical research, we followed the science. The trial evolved, and the requirements shifted.

However, the RTSM system we built two years prior couldn't keep up. It became:

• Overly complex: Small changes required massive re-work.
• Prohibitively expensive: The costs to "fix" the system spiraled.
• Functionally obsolete: It no longer served the study’s actual needs.

When a system isn't built to adapt, it creates a stressful environment for everyone involved—from the sponsors to the site staff.

Moving From Apologies to Delivery

In my (Kelly Kaufman, Project Manager) previous roles at other RTSM providers, I felt like I was constantly apologizing. Whether it was a massive resourcing effort required for a simple change or the inability to give a client a clear timeline, the frustration was deafening.

I was ashamed of the delivery times. When you can't even tell a client when a solution will be ready, the system is broken.

That is why I moved to Atreo. I wanted to work with a tool that allows teams to say "yes" instead of "maybe in six months." By prioritizing speed and reliability, we’ve transitioned from a culture of apologies to a culture of belief in the product.

The High Cost of "Silly" Bugs

My (Jon Ball, COO/Co-Founder) career began in software testing, and that perspective is vital. In this industry, there is no such thing as a "small" bug. A minor technical glitch can have a massive impact on:

• Patient Safety: Ensuring the right patient gets the right kit at the right time.
• Data Integrity: Avoiding manual workarounds that lead to errors.
• End-User Experience: Reducing the burden on clinical site staff.

We shouldn't be in a situation where "silly" bugs jeopardize a multi-million dollar trial. We need simplicity at the core of the technology to eliminate these risks.

Making RTSM in Clinical Trials Simple Again

Starting a clinical trial is hard enough. Between regulatory hurdles, patient recruitment, and scientific rigor, the life cycle of a study is inherently stressful. Your RTSM system should be the easiest part of your day, not the hardest.

At Atreo, we believe that by building simpler, more adaptable tools, we can remove the "pain" from the process. It’s time to stop fighting against our technology and start using it to move science forward faster.