Electronic data capture (EDC) systems have become essential technology for clinical trials because they help streamline workflow, increase collaboration, and reduce the costs and resources associated with collecting, storing, and distributing clinical trial data. Although all EDCs deliver some combination of those benefits, selecting the one that best fits an organization’s computing infrastructure, trial types, reporting requirements and more can ensure the organization gets the most out of this essential technology. This paper is intended to help clinical-trial sponsors, CROs and sites navigate the process of EDC vendor selection. Covering the different types of EDCs, differences in features and functionality, and related technologies like eSource and ePRO, the paper provides information and insight buyers can use to make a better-informed purchase decision on this key technology for clinical research.