Across industries, laboratories are expected to accurately process data, establish efficient workflows, ensure traceability and accountability of samples, and remain compliant. That’s a lot to ask for.
As the volume of samples in labs increases, these expectations are far more easily achieved with digital solutions such as LIMS software.
In this post, we’re going to walk through some of the key features of an effective LIMS software, and how these can benefit the operations of your lab.
1. LIMS Feature - Sample Tracking & Management
An effective LIMS will track the life cycle of each sample, from its induction into the lab until its archival and disposal.
Each sample will be labeled with a unique barcode that gets scanned during every phase of its processing, creating an activity trail that gets automatically uploaded into the LIMS.
LIMS Benefit - Traceability and Removal of Human Error
Automating sample tracking with LIMS benefits labs by reducing the risk of human error during the labeling and storage process, whilst offering users greater visibility and traceability of each sample.
This creates a more streamlined sample management workflow, as the sample retrieval and location process becomes error-resistant and intuitive.
2. LIMS Feature - Automation of Routine Tasks
LIMS software automates much of the repetitive, manual tasks in the lab — including elements of inventory management, reporting, result calculations, data entry, and sample labeling. LIMS software can also automate certain logistical tasks, such as notifying technicians of pending tasks and assigning specific workflows, which streamlines lab operations.
LIMS Benefit - Greater Productivity
Coupled with the reduction of human error caused by manual data entry, automating repetitive, routine tasks will free up the time of lab personnel to carry out more important, high-impact tasks.
3. LIMS Feature - Collaborative and Teamwork
Most LIMS software is cloud-based, meaning external researchers can collaborate on projects from anywhere in the world. LIMS centralizes all data into a secure Cloud network that facilitates contextual commenting, annotations, and real-time updates. Many LIMS systems will also integrate with other cloud-based collaboration programmes such as Google Drive, DropBox, Zoom, Teams amongst numerous others.
LIMS Benefit - Greater Insights & Communication
Intuitive collaboration tools offers the possibility for greater scientific insight and collaboration with experts, no matter where they are in the world. The Cloud-based network facilitates effortless communication between researchers, which can contribute to swifter breakthroughs and results.
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4. LIMS Feature - Instrument Integration
An effective LIMS system can seamlessly integrate with laboratory instruments, such as microscopes or spectrometers, to automatically input raw data into the system.
LIMS Benefit - Increased Data Accuracy & Efficiency
Automated data input can reduce human error to zero, speed up sample processing turnaround, facilitate batch-processing, and increase lab operation efficiency.
Relying on manual data entry leaves your lab vulnerable to the inaccuracies and inefficiencies that come with human error and time-consuming tasks, which can lead to unreproducible and invalid results.
5. LIMS Feature - Automated Audit Trails
Most LIMS systems are compatible with electronic signature software, such as DocuSign, and automatically time-stamp all entries, samples, and user activity. This offers end-to-end visibility, increased traceability and accountability, and a time-stamped, unbroken chain of custody for samples.
LIMS Benefit - Effortless Compliance
With automated compliance features, complying with regulations and preparing for audits has never been easier. By using the right LIMS software, labs can stop worrying about remaining compliant with the ever-changing regulations in their industry.
Explore Labguru's LIMS features – Book a demo today to see the benefits in action!
