External Modules

External Modules (EM) are individual packages of software that can extend REDCap’s functionality, behavior, and appearance in creative ways.  EMs may sometimes incur costs for installation or use within a project.

Types of External Modules 

There are 2 types of REDCap External Modules:

  1. General: Developed by members of the REDCap Consortium and curated through the Vanderbilt repository. These modules are available for installation on all REDCap projects and provide features that are broadly useful to many investigators.
  1. Custom. Developed by study staff or software developers to meet specific project needs. These modules are installed on a limited number of projects and must undergo additional security review and approval prior to use.

For questions about External Modules or assistance identifying an appropriate option, contact us.

Learn More

How it works

Vanderbilt Consortium EM repository

External Modules from the Vanderbilt repository are downloaded and installed by a REDCap Administrator. In general, we support modules that:

  • Are widely used within the Vanderbilt REDCap Consortium.
  • Are routinely updated and actively maintained.
  • Have no known compatibility or security issues.

How to Request

To request the addition of a External Module to your project, please provide:

  1. External Module Name 
  2. Principal Investigator/Project Owner Name
  3. Study Title
  4. Server- Yale (REDCap I, REDCap II) or YNHH (Standard, 21 Part 11)
  5. Project ID (PID)

Limitations

Before installation, each module must be tested and vetted on both the system- and project- to ensure compatibility.

  • Some EMs may not be compatible with the current version of REDCap, PHP, or other installed modules.
  • External Modules cannot be used with the REDCap Mobile App.

  • 21 CFR Part 11-validated servers restrict the use of EMs due to testing and validation requirements.

    Contact us for current availability and server-specific guidance. 

How it works

There are two options for using or developing Custom External Modules in your REDCap project:

  1. Fee-for-Service Development:
    Request a consultation for Custom Software Development if you would like to contract REDCap developers to build a Custom EM for your project.

  2. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Development:
    If your study team or an affiliated developer plans to build and maintain the module independently, you may create a Custom External Module directly for your REDCap project.

    Limitations

    Custom External Modules are subject to Yale security clearance requirements.
    Developers must coordinate with the REDCap team to submit a Security Planning Assessment  prior to installation and use, whether the module is developed internally or through a paid service.