What are the most important elements that make up a laboratory information system? How do you know that it is in proper working order and can be maintained to the maximum degree?
There are many types of information systems and electronic lab notebooks. There are those that monitor and record data from your laboratory equipment, and there are those that keep track of your experiment results. The difference between the two types is in the way they record and store the data. Some of these systems provide the data to the researcher, while others retain the data and provide reports on them.
Choosing the right LIMS
When you are choosing an information system for your lab, there are some things that you should consider in order to ensure that you make the best choice. First of all, the system should have all the necessary features that are needed by your laboratory. This means that you should not be looking for a system that has only a basic data storage capability. You need to have a system that can store data for your experiment, record it, and send the results back to the researcher as well. In other words, the system should be able to send the researcher an email if the experiment is over, and allow the researcher to view the results through their computer.
Another aspect that you want to consider is the right information that you need to use the system. For example, if the experiment is being done in a space that is not easily accessible, then you might want to choose a system that allows the researcher to send a message to you through the internet. Also, a message board might be helpful. This allows the researcher to keep a record of the various discussions that have taken place during the course of the experiment and gives them access to them from anywhere.
Laboratory information systems that include laboratory monitoring and record keeping, but do not have these other features, might prove to be less useful. A simple program might be sufficient, but if your laboratory is equipped with a computer, then it may even be useful for you to consider more complex programs. These allow the researchers to upload the experiment results directly into their computer, and keep the data safe and secure.
The information system that you choose should be able to send data between your computer and the researchers when they need it, without any delay whatsoever. Since you cannot control the quality of your computer, you need to find one that can take the load, without causing any errors. of the hardware to fail or have to work overtime. Another important aspect is the ability to send the information electronically.
Factors picking a LIMS
You need to be able to send your data through electronic mail so that the data is received in a timely manner. You also need to find a system that is easy to set up, and to operate. It should also be able to accept email and not take much time to set up. You need to find one that is user-friendly and compatible with all types of operating systems.
One of the most important aspects of your information system is the ability to keep it updated. This can only be done if the system you choose has a mechanism for updating itself. You need to find a system that will allow you to change and add to the database without much difficulty and without any type of downtime.
The system should also be able to save the data and the information from the previous day onto a hard drive so that the next day you do not have to re-compile the information from scratch. This should allow you to make any necessary changes whenever necessary. With the ability to do this, it will allow you to keep your information as current as possible.
Once you have chosen the type of system that is going to meet all of the above criteria check that the company that you buy the system offer a money back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the LIMS.
Remember, if you buy a system that has too many functions for your particular needs, then it can be more difficult to use.
Paul Evans is a prominent technology writer at Jetbox™, Inc., specializing in innovative software toolsets designed to streamline the deployment and maintenance of PLM applications. With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, Paul provides deep insights into Jetbox’s groundbreaking products like the iC5™ Turbo and iC5™ Designer toolsets.
