Flexibility is the differentiator in highly competitive RTSM space, says ICON

Sponsors and CROs want randomization and clinical trial supply management (RTSM) systems that are flexible, easy to use, and able to support complex drug studies, according to ICON.

Alyssa Gilliam, vice president of interactive response technology (IRT) and clinical supply management (CSM) at the Ireland-based contractor shared her take this week, telling Clinical Insider that users choose technologies that are adaptable.

“The space is highly competitive, with numerous specialized vendors offering configurable platforms. However, differentiation is increasingly based on system flexibility, ease of use, integration capabilities, and the ability to support increasingly complex clinical trial supply strategies,” she said.

Gilliam cites ICON’s in-house RTSM technology — FlexAdvantage — as an example, arguing the ability to adapt to specific study objectives is vital for modern clinical trials.

“Using an RTSM system provides significant benefits in terms of speed, accuracy, and compliance. These platforms reduce manual errors, enable real-time data visibility, and ensure proper drug accountability across global sites.

“For studies with complex protocols, adaptive designs, or large patient populations, automation through RTSM is essential to ensure efficient enrollment, minimize drug waste, and maintain regulatory compliance,” she said.

AI evolution

The terms RTSM and IRT are used interchangeably, although the former more explicitly reflects the system’s dual role in both subject randomization and supply chain management. In effect, RTSM systems represent the evolution of traditional IRT platforms, offering greater flexibility, integration capabilities, and user-centric design to better support complex trial designs and dynamic supply strategies.

RTSM systems will continue to evolve as digitization of the biopharmaceutical industry accelerates, according to Gilliam, who cited artificial intelligence as a likely change driver.

“AI is poised to play a larger role in areas like demand forecasting, predictive resupply, and risk mitigation across the clinical supply chain and reporting functionality.

“Icon is evaluating how AI, combined with protocol details and historical build data, can be used to streamline and accelerate system build processes, helping to reduce setup timelines and increase overall efficiency,” she said.

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