The iCaRe2 group elected to use a "confederation model", as opposed to a traditional registry or network model. It was felt that these latter models implied that the registry or network would assume control of an individual Center's database. The major advantages of a confederation model include the flexibility to use selected Centers for different research projects based on a Center's resources and expertise and the ability to have different strategies to address various research questions. It was also recognized that for this model to be successful, it is essential to have a standardized approach to data collection (patient information and biospecimen annotation) and reporting. A confederation would also encourage participation of any interested Center, irrespective of its size or location. A web-based registry iCaRe2 was developed and made available to any Center to participate in data collection and storage of cancer related data.