Through the Internet, or with a teleconference line, programs can be electronically distributed to the computers of selected members of a team, but cannot be opened except by the sender, who then can control the flow and order of the presentation, respond to comments and questions, and otherwise stay in charge of the proceedings from across the country or around the world as easily as if he or she was across the room—all through a laptop computer. 8. The Gauntlet of Medical, Legal, and Regulatory Review Few communications are examined as closely before their delivery to intended audiences as are pharmaceutical communications. In addition to advertising and marketing personnel, internal teams of scientists, clinicians, and lawyers examine each piece, not only for factual accuracy, but also for more esoteric concepts such as "fair balance," and "meaning" for intended audiences. While drug and medical device companies have used technology to streamline these procedures for some time now, the use of such technology by the principal US prescription drug advertising review body—the Food and Drug Administration—is a relatively recent occurrence. The evolution away from paper to digital formats not only requires new knowledge and training of staff from all sectors—agency, clients, suppliers, and regulatory bodies—but also patience and forbearance as this seismic shift takes place. 9. The Production Process Assuming that the G e rd a to n sales aid has received all of the necessary approvals, it is now ready for production. As a print piece, the procedures for getting it printed, delivered in bulk to the sales force, and distributed to physicians across the country are well established. Computers are used to accelerate the pre-production
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