Terminology and assumptions vary within the industry. However, a core concept remains consistent – decentralized clinical trials fall on a spectrum of conduct and components. Traditional clinical trials encompass little to no remote or virtual elements and are conducted exclusively at brick and mortar research sites. Hybrid clinical trials implement any range of decentralized, virtual, or remote components of a clinical trial. Full virtual or fully remote clinical trials, operate as exclusively as possible outside of physical locations. Decentralized can mean fully virtual or remote, or hybrid. No matter how you choose to approach or refer to decentralized clinical trials, it is important to understand the nuances of this evolving method and recognize their impact on the future of clinical research.