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
View Full Video [11:20]
Check out our Resources for more information about using the system.
Learn more about the technology behind the SMART IRB Online Reliance System.
How it works
For Investigators
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 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
Contact us to request institution administrator access for your POC
Use the Online Reliance System to enable reliance for your studies.
Institution Points of Contact (POCs): contact us to request access.
Check the Participating Institution list to see if your institution is on the list.
Learn more about joining.