Problem/Objective: A challenge to the grant application process is the timely and fair review of applications. The California Tobacco Control Section issues several grants per year and receives hundreds of applications in response. Needless to say, the coordination of the process for peer and internal review and awards is a time consuming process.

Methods: The California Tobacco Control Program in partnership with Florida State University, developed a web-based grant application review tool that supports the peer and internal review and award process. The system allows reviewers, internal and external, online access to submitted applications and review tools. Each reviewer can be assigned to multiple applications. These applications are then available to the reviewer online through a web-based application. The online reviews are then compiled by the system into a single report for the use of the review facilitator in determining a consensus review Results: The grant application review system is a powerful tool that helps eliminate paper, travel time, errors etc. By using a web-based system, system requirements are kept to a minimum while still providing a flexible means by which to allow reviewers to examine, evaluate and report their reviews. Storing the reviews electronically also provides the opportunity to quickly and easily present the reviewer submitted information in a consolidated format that supports the process of developing a consensus decision.

Conclusions: Using technology to facilitate the grant application review and award process presents a new way of doing business for the California Tobacco Control Program. The barriers and successes in implementation of the review tool will be discussed.