Client Spotlight: FGK Clinical Research GmbH CRO’s Experience with Flex Database

October 3, 2024

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Martin Krauss, Co-Founder and Managing Director of FGK CRO, to discuss how Flex Databases has supported their clinical research operations over the past 3.5 years.
In this interview, Martin shares:

• Why FGK CRO initially chose to partner with Flex Databases.
• How our CTMS, TMF, and LMS solutions have transformed their operations, improving efficiency, compliance, and document management.
• His thoughts on the importance of customer service and ongoing support.
• Valuable advice for other companies considering our platform.
• Bonus: Martin’s take on the role of AI in clinical trial automation and where it could add value next.

Curious how Flex Databases could transform your clinical research? Don’t miss this interview!

Interview highlights

FDB: Good morning, Martin. Thank you for taking the time. You’ve been using Flex Databases’ CTMS system for about three and a half years now. Could you introduce yourself and tell us about FGK Clinical Research?

MK: Good morning. I’m Martin Krauss, the Managing Director of FGK Clinical Research. I’m a biostatistician by background with nearly 30 years of experience in the clinical research industry. FGK has grown to around 240 staff members and is based in Europe with several offices across the continent. We’re a full-service CRO specializing in the biotech industry, and we’ve built a sustainable, organically grown company over the years.

FDB: You’ve been working with Flex Databases for three and a half years, but what made you decide to implement their system initially?

MK: As our company grew and projects became more complex, we reached a point where a CTMS system was a necessity, not just for internal management but because it was expected by our clients. We went through a thorough selection process, evaluating several systems and companies, and ultimately, Flex Databases was the best fit for our needs.

FDB: Do you remember how many companies you evaluated during that selection process?

MK: In the end, we narrowed it down to two companies. It wasn’t just about the software but the company behind it, the personal connection, and the trust we felt. It’s a business partnership, and that was a key selection criterion for us.

FDB: How has implementing CTMS, the Trial Master File (TMF), and the Learning Management System (LMS) benefited FGK’s operations?

MK: Implementing these systems has streamlined operations significantly. CTMS gives us easy access to information across studies, speeds up internal processes, and provides consistent project structures. TMF helps us meet regulatory requirements efficiently, and the LMS has reduced the time and effort needed for internal staff training, making our operations more efficient.

FDB: What has been your experience with Flex Databases’ support and customer service?

MK: The support has been excellent. We need reliable, responsive customer service, and Flex Databases has delivered that. Their team listens to our feedback, cares about our needs, and provides knowledgeable support, which has been crucial in keeping our operations running smoothly.

FDB: What would you say to other companies considering Flex Databases?

MK: It’s been a very good partnership. The system is user-friendly, and we’ve had a positive experience with the support team. The continuous improvement of the system is a big plus, and the company’s ability to collaborate effectively has made a real difference for us.

FDB: What are your thoughts on the potential role of AI in clinical trials, particularly in systems like CTMS?

MK: AI has great potential, but it won’t revolutionize clinical research overnight. We’re thinking about how it can bring efficiencies, such as optimizing study planning based on existing data or auto-filling fields based on past entries.