Research labs from numerous fields of science, such as clinical research, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences are under increasing pressure to do more with less. Lab efficiency includes maximizing data accuracy, increasing productivity, and making everything run smoother while still ensuring traceability and compliance.
By implementing tools like Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), and using barcodes around the lab, labs can improve the efficiency and accuracy of their operations and data storage.
In this post, we’re going to look at 5 key ways a deeply integrated LIMS and barcode-based system can improve your lab efficiency.
1. Sample Tracking
Accurate sample tracking is essential for any research lab’s efficiency; in the event of samples going missing or being mislabeled, operations can slow down and results can be delayed. Worse, it can also lead to sample confusion which can be disastrous for results as well as dangerous.
LIMS is sample-centric software, making it highly effective for tracking samples throughout their life cycle. From the moment samples are inducted into the lab, they are each given a unique, machine readable barcode.
In every stage of the sample’s processing, from analysis to storage, the barcode is scanned and automatically uploaded into the LIMS. This level of visibility offers users enhanced traceability and accountability for each sample.
2. Reducing Human Error
With manual sample labelling, labs leave themselves vulnerable to human error like illegible handwriting, missing information, and mislabeling samples. All these things can become blockers that reduce efficiency in the lab.
Inducting and tracking samples using barcodes and LIMS is a powerful solution that almost entirely eradicates human error. By using unique, automated barcodes, the sample retrieval process becomes more efficient, locating samples becomes faster and easier, and the entire sample management workflow becomes swifter and more cost-effective.
3. Compliance and Auditing
Compliance and auditing is always a challenge many labs face. Bottlenecks in compliance can cause great delays, contribute to inefficiencies, and potentially have more severe consequences.
As each sample’s barcode is scanned during every stage of its processing, LIMS creates an unbroken chain of custody for every sample inducted into the lab. This creates an inspection-ready audit trail, which is particularly useful for labs in highly regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals and clinical diagnostics.
4. Increased Reproducibility
Reproducibility directly impacts lab efficiency. The faster and more accurately data can be reproduced and verified, the faster a lab can move toward a finding or proven result.
An effective LIMS software coupled with sample barcode scanning offers significant value in enhancing the reproducibility of results. From creating a detailed stock list that includes information on how each reagent was stored and used, to storing samples in one centralized system, replicating experiments and results becomes much simpler.
5. Workflow Efficiency
The automation and simplification of routine tasks, such as sample labeling and tracking, significantly maximizes lab efficiency.
From batch-processing multiple samples to automating inventory management, using barcodes for sample labelling can speed up numerous areas of your laboratory workflow.
LIMS can also automate logistical tasks, such as allocating samples to specific personnel or routing them to a particular instrument, reducing labor and the time samples spend in transit.
Implementing an effective LIMS that integrates with barcode technology is a must for any labs looking to boost their productivity and efficiency. By using these automated, intelligent processes that keep your lab compliant and cost-effective, you can increase lab efficiency whilst building an error-free sample management workflow.
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