REDbox: a comprehensive semantic framework for data collection and management in tuberculosis research

The outcomes of a clinical research directly depend on the correct definition of the research protocol, the data collection strategy and the data management plan. Furthermore, researchers often need to work within challenging contexts, such as in Tuberculosis services, where human and technological resources for research may be rare. The use of Electronic Data Capture systems, such as REDCap and KoBotoolbox, can help to mitigate such risks and to enable a reliable environment to conduct health research and promote results dissemination and data reusability. The proposed solution was based on needs pinpointed by researchers, considering the lack of an embracing solution to conduct research in low resources environments. The REDbox framework was built to enhance data collection, management and sharing in tuberculosis research, while providing a better user experience. The relevance of this article lies in the innovative approach to support TB research by combining existing technologies and developing support features. When focusing on positive aspects of each tool, it is possible to underpin tuberculosis research by improving data collection, management capability and security. Furthermore, the aggregation of meaning in raw data helps to promote the quality and the availability of research data.