The Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP) has expanded its online networking and educational resources. ACRP’s new online community, which launched Monday, includes an interactive member directory that allows members to create individualized profiles, groups and blogs; as well as an online encyclopedia (or Wiki), new eGroup options, and a searchable resource library, to which members can post documents and tools.

This new online service is a significant upgrade over ACRP’s previous online directory and listserv tools, which used somewhat outdated technology and software, according to ACRP marketing and communications director Jenna Rouse. The new system represents a global trend toward more interactive online networking and will hopefully provide valuable tools to members.

“The economy is tough right now, and it’s hard for people to travel to get the educational resources that they used to travel for … This just provides so much more for our members worldwide,” Rouse said.

The online community is driven by ACRP’s member database and includes basic name, company, and title. Similar to other online networks, such as Facebook and LinkedIn, ACRP members can update their profiles, invite friends, and create networks of contacts. If someone outside of their networks wants to contact them, members receive email invitations, which they can accept or reject. This eliminates unwanted emails from recruiters and vendors, Rouse said.

Members can also share best practices, standard operating procedures and articles through the new resource library, which includes an array of searchable resources.

“The resource library is one of the biggest assets of this because the [clinical trial coordinator] spends so much time recreating the wheel when it comes to policies and forms,” said David Vulcano, chair of the Association Board of Trustees for ACRP.