Online Reliance System
Request, track, and document reliance arrangements
Reliance Overview
Investigators and institutions can use the Online Reliance System to request, track, and document reliance arrangements on a study-by-study basis.
- Simplifies the selection of a single IRB for multisite studies
- Manages communication between institutions and investigators
- Tracks the status of requests
- Clearly indicates what needs to be done next
- Documents reliance arrangements for each study
- Reminder options help keep the process moving
- Sites can be added to a reliance arrangement by amendment
- On-demand summary reports for institutions
Reliance Walkthrough Video
Check out our resources for more information about using the system or learn more about the technology behind the SMART IRB Online Reliance System.
Has Your Institution Joined?
Check the Participating Institution list to see if your institution is on the list.
How it Works
For Investigators & Study Teams
To submit a request for reliance for your study, the Overall PI or a designee will:
- Provide details about the study
- List the engaged sites
- Identify activities and personnel at each site
- Upload research protocol and any consent templates
Review the Reliance Checklist and prepare study materials prior to logging in.
For IRB/HRPP Staff & Institutions
Once a request is submitted:
- The Overall PI’s home institution evaluates the request
- A Reviewing IRB is identified
- Institutions express their willingness to rely and communicate local context information
- The Reviewing IRB reviews each institution’s decision and issues a determination
Join SMART IRB
Join the platform to harmonize and streamline the IRB review process for multisite studies, while ensuring a high level of protection for research participants.
