Blinded variables in EnrollNow are designed to support studies that require controlled access to sensitive data, ensuring that only authorized users can view specific information. This functionality is especially important in clinical research environments where maintaining the integrity of a study depends on preventing bias.
By designating a variable as blinded, you can restrict visibility based on user roles, helping your team comply with study protocols and regulatory requirements while protecting critical data.
What Are Blinded Variables?
Blinded variables are custom variables (Global or Study-level) with restricted visibility settings.
When a variable is marked as blinded:
- Only Study Admins can view the actual value
- Other users (e.g., Study Leaders and Research Assistants) will see an anonymous string instead
- The variable can still be used in data collection, reporting, and workflows, depending on permissions
This ensures that key study data—such as treatment assignments or outcomes—does not unintentionally influence study staff or participants.
Purpose of Blinded Variables
Blinded variables help to:
- Limit visibility of sensitive data to authorized users only
- Enhance privacy and regulatory compliance
- Maintain objective study execution by reducing potential bias
Blinded Variable Permissions Summary
Blinded variables in EnrollNow restrict access to certain custom variable data. When a variable is blinded, only Study Admins can view its actual value, while other users see an anonymous string instead.
Users Who Can View Values
- Study Admins
Users Who See Anonymous Values
- Study Leaders
- Research Assistants (RAs)
How to Blind a Variable in EnrollNow
Follow the steps below to enable blinding on a custom variable:
1. Navigate to Study Settings
- Open your study
- Select the Study Settings tab
- Click into the Requirements section
2. Locate the Custom Variables Section
- Scroll to the Custom Variables section
3. Create or Select a Variable
- Create a new custom variable
or - Select an existing Global variable
4. Enable Blinding
- Locate the “Blind” checkbox next to the variable
- Check the box to restrict access
5. Save Changes
- Changes will autosave automatically
Once enabled, only Study Admins will see the true value. All other users will see an anonymous string.
