As discussed previously, industries that are heavily regulated typically have more stringent formulation requirements. Ensuring product effectiveness, quality, and safety will require implementing strict guidelines. Part 3 will discuss LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System).

LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System)

The implementation of a LIMS featuring strong capabilities in formulations management can minimize difficulties involving formulation processes. LIMS eases the work of scientists and lab technicians in the proper management of product formulation requirements throughout its cycle.

Having the necessary tools can help increase product quality and profitability. In evaluating a LIMS, the following are the main formulation capabilities that should be featured:

• User-friendly interface enabling adjustments to a formulation’s ingredient quantities. along with the capability of projecting the effects of adjustments on physical properties and costs
  
• Reusable formulation templates that conserve time and effort
  
• Historical data search and comprehensive indexing capabilities
  
• Capabilities in accommodating various sample calculation requirements
  
• Capable of transferring formulations from stage to stage as authorized by management approval
  
• Strong management capabilities of samples and specifications, along with testing/analysis during various formulation stages

Conclusion

Configuring a laboratory’s formulations process properly can help shorten time to market, improve product quality, and decrease costs, resulting in a competitive advantage. Unfortunately, when it is time to consider formulations strategy, organizations often overlook the notion of purchasing a LIMS solution with proven effective formulations management capabilities.

Many deem a LIMS as primarily a solution offering complex information technology to be used by technicians for sample management and product testing. However, a LIMS is also essential for every laboratory that requires data management and documentation for all their processes.

A modern LIMS that is easily configurable and features integrated formulations management capabilities is essential in the proper management of formulations processes.

STARLIMS Integrated Solution

Implementing state-of-the art technology, STARLIMS provides a totally integrated solution that incorporates LIMS, Electronic Laboratory Notebook (ELN), Scientific Data Management System (SDMS), Advanced Analytics, and Mobile within a single application. This innovation makes building and maintaining custom interfaces required by third party tools unnecessary.

Alpha Engineering LIMS Implementation

Alpha has been involved with the implementation of over 50 LIMS systems ranging in size from small, “off-the-shelf” software systems to very large, highly customized, multi-functional systems, including STARLIMS, for both governmental agencies and private enterprises. For affordable client-focused network consulting services and solutions, please call Alpha today at (410) 295-9500.