Quality Improvement (QI) and Quality Assurance (QA) consist of activities that are undertaken to measure the effectiveness of standard accepted processes, programs or services. QI/QA projects may not expose individuals to any additional risks. IRB oversight may be required in some NON-research projects, for the protection of participants and/or personal information, and for documentation of support by affiliated organizations and sites.

In contrast, human research consists of a systematic investigation that is designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge, the results of which are to be shared with both individuals associated with and individuals unassociated with the investigation.

IRB Review of QI/QA Projects

All students, staff and faculty at MSOE planning to conduct quality improvement/quality assurance projects must first register their project with MSOE IRB in order to determine that the project plan is not designed as human subjects research. Students planning to conduct QI/QA projects should discuss the project idea with their faculty supervisor.

Then, log into OneAegis to complete the necessary QI/QA xForm.

For further assistance, please request a consultation by sending an email message to IRB@msoe.edu