Avoiding Common IRB Approval Delays
Securing Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval is a critical milestone in launching any human subjects research study. Avoiding common IRB approval delays is vital to the success, and speed, of your review.
At Solutions IRB, we work with researchers from a variety of disciplines—academic, independent, and industry-based—and we’ve seen firsthand how a smooth, well-prepared submission process can accelerate approval timelines. However, we’ve also noticed a few common stumbling blocks that tend to delay the process. The good news? With some early planning and attention to detail, these delays are completely avoidable.
This article—the first in our “IRB Approval Success” series—highlights three common issues that can slow down IRB review and offers practical tips to help you submit a complete, high-quality application the first time.
1. Not Having a Fully Conceptualized Study
One of the most frequent causes of delay is submitting an application for a study that is still in the idea stage. While enthusiasm and eagerness to begin are great qualities, the IRB requires a fully developed research plan before it can grant approval.
A “fully conceptualized” study means:
A clear research question – You should be able to clearly articulate your study’s objectives and purpose.
Defined study design – Will your study be a randomized controlled trial, a survey, an observational study, or something else?
Detailed methodology – Include specifics about participant recruitment, data collection procedures, and any interventions.
Identified data analysis plan – Even if your analysis is straightforward, the IRB needs to know how you will interpret your findings.
Tip for Success: Before you submit to the IRB, create a concise but complete written outline of your study from start to finish. Imagine walking an unfamiliar reader through exactly how the study will work. If you can do that without leaving major gaps, your study is ready for submission.
2. Not Having Appropriate Resources to Conduct the Research
Even the most well-designed study can run into trouble if it lacks the resources needed to be carried out successfully. The IRB’s role is to ensure that research is ethical and feasible—meaning that you must have the tools, personnel, and environment necessary to protect participants and collect reliable data.
Resources might include:
Qualified personnel – Do you have trained staff to conduct interviews, administer surveys, or carry out specialized procedures?
Facilities – Is there an appropriate and safe space to conduct study activities?
Equipment and materials – Are the tools, software, and supplies you need ready and available?
Funding – Is there enough financial support to see the study through to completion?
Tip for Success: Before submitting to the IRB, make a checklist of the physical, human, and financial resources you will need. Confirm that they are either in place or will be available when your study begins. Providing this information to the IRB upfront reassures reviewers that your study can proceed safely and efficiently.
3. Submitting Draft Documents Instead of Final Versions
It’s understandable that researchers may want to “get something in” to the IRB to start the review process, even if all documents are not quite finished. However, the IRB cannot review incomplete or draft materials.
This includes:
Informed consent forms
Recruitment flyers or advertisements
Questionnaires or interview guides
Protocol documents
Submitting draft versions can significantly delay approval because reviewers will have to request revisions before a formal review can even begin. This can result in unnecessary back-and-forth exchanges that stretch out timelines.
Tip for Success: Make sure every document you submit is in final form—proofread, formatted, and ready for use. If you are still working on materials, wait until they are complete before submitting your application. This one step alone can save weeks in the approval process.
A Positive Takeaway: IRB Readiness Saves Time
While it’s easy to view IRB requirements as hurdles, they are actually safeguards designed to help your study succeed ethically, safely, and with integrity. Submitting a fully conceptualized study, demonstrating adequate resources, and providing finalized documents all set the stage for a faster, smoother review.
By addressing these key areas before you submit, not only can you avoid common IRB approval delays, you:
Increase the likelihood of first-round approval
Reduce the need for multiple rounds of revisions
Get to the research phase sooner
How Solutions IRB Can Help
At Solutions IRB, we specialize in helping researchers avoid these common IRB approval delays. Using our concierge service, our experienced team can review your materials before submission, identify gaps, and recommend adjustments that improve your chances of rapid approval.
Whether you are an independent researcher, part of a private company, or affiliated with an institution, we offer personalized support to guide you through the IRB process. We also provide quick turnaround times and clear communication—because we know that your research can’t wait.
Ready to submit your study?
Contact Solutions IRB today to ensure your application is complete, well-prepared, and ready for review. Let’s work together to make your IRB approval process as smooth and efficient as possible.