Simplify the task of validating your QMS software with a GxP validation process

It's not unusual for life science organisations to be put off implementing a new quality and compliance management software solution due to fear of enormous and unsustainable validation costs. But with a GxP validation process, the task can seem a little less formidable. 

Control validation costs

GxP software validation is an essential requirement for compliance with the FDA, MHRA and ISO 13485. While it’s not possible to completely eliminate validation costs, it is possible to make the process as easy, efficient and pain-free as possible.

Here's how Ideagen helps you systematically manage the validation and re-validation of our quality management system software:

1) Plan

Your Service Implementation Manager works with you to plan validation activities. Planning deliverables will typically include:

• Validation master plan
• User requirements specifications
• System functional specifications
• System configuration plans
• Operational qualification test plans
• Validation traceability matrix

You may already have templates for some of these. If not, Ideagen can provide them and your Implementation Service Manager will ensure that you have asked the right questions to cover all bases. This ensures that the validation methodology aligns with your URS and applicable standards and regulations.

2) Build

Ideagen has a team of installation experts who will set up your system. We offer a complete range of professional services to ensure your QMS implementation goes as smoothly as possible, with minimum impact to your valuable resource and maximum return from your investment.

3) Configure

Your dedicated Service Implementation Manager will work closely with you to configure the solution to meet your business requirements. The elements of the configuration specification are recorded in your traceability matrix beside the corresponding requirements and functions.

4) Test 

The test phase involves ensuring that the systems meets the key operational functionality and security functions. During this phase, we provide you with training, on-boarding plans, and Operational Qualification (OQ) support such as validation test scripts. Your dedicated Service Implementation Manager will work with you to go through the test scripts and show you how to achieve your requirement on the system. For example, we'll show you how to ensure a document is only visible to certain people and groups, or help you take screen shots to document how a function works.

5) Review 

After the system has been configured and tested, we provide a range of support templates, materials and services to help you to ensure the software performs as you desire. Also known as Performance Qualification (PQ), during this phase we repeat the OP tests using various scenarios, and also undertake a Standard Operation Procedure review and change control. Validation sign off happens on a modular basis and requires both parties to review. Once all of the modules have been signed off, the whole validation support process is also reviewed by both parties.

Find out how we supported the Royal Wolverhampton NHS trust's pathology department with their GxP validation process.

Written by

Alexander Pavlović

Alex produces targeted content to help Ideagen’s readers and customers navigate the complex world of quality, governance, risk and compliance.

Alex has worked with brands such as BT, Sodexo and Unilever and is passionate about helping businesses build a cohesive, collaborative culture of quality.