Marc BOUROUDIAN/SANOFI-SYNTHELABO's INTERVIEW
Users Project Manager

Q : What was the selection process for the software ?

A : Specifications has been defined and sent to several software suppliers.
Once we have received answers, we have restricted our study to four competitors who had each other two presentation days based on a proposed scenario
After these two days, ORIAM's proposal seemed the most suitable for our needs.

Q : Since when are you using EC1_TrialManager ?

A : We installed EC1 version 2.6 at the end of 1999 and we are using version 3 for the time being.

Q : How did you realized the implementation ?

A : We have created a team-project with a users project manager and a data processing manager as well as two groups, one composed of 8 key users and another one with ten local users coming from subsidiaries.

This team was used to work with very different monitoring tools: some used Excel, others didn't even want to know about it.

First thinking was to make a clean sweep of all the existing and think about an ideal monitoring tool. Key functions were specified, brain storming has been leaded by local users groups and central ones in fully cooperation.
From there ,we have set up a pilot whose customization was made with key-users trained by ORIAM.
This beta test version has been tested with three actual studies and well run. Consequently, we had to train all the users and in every concerned countries. And thus, two " top trainers " were sent out on a peace mission worldwide.

Q : Then, you didn't have to make any specific development ?

A : Not at the onset. Afterwards, for reporting purposes, we have developed a Business Object universe enabling us to edit reports consolidating data, which is of interest for management.
Some other editions have been developed with ORIAM.
Using of the checklist module has allowed us to create few screen well adapted to our functioning.

Q : Nowadays, how many countries are connected ?

A : 17 countries are connected to a central data base and we can state that the response times are globally good, even if we have to make progress in some countries.

Q : Users must be satisfied ?

A : Basically yes, although the implementation of a new tool which are changing users familiar routines requests time. Considering the numerous software functionalities, we had to train up them progressively. We also had to face few technical problems, but we appreciated ORIAM's assistance.

Q : About that, how will you qualify the cooperation with ORIAM ?

A : As very constructive, because it is a very reactive and open team. I mean that it has to take into account all its other client constraints. But retained choices are always done with users requirements in mind.

Q : what about the user club ?

A : We have a continuous relationship with the editor so the user group has not that much to contribute. But it allows to meet another companies that bring us their experience and sometimes new solutions.

Q : How do you imagine the evolution of a monitoring product ?

A : The most important thing is to exchange data with other systems in order to avoid duplication of information and to facilitate updating. We particularly appreciate EC1-TrialManager capabilities in that field.

Q : To sum-up, today will you recommand ORIAM to a company looking for a CTMS.

A : Definitily, yes.