As discussed in Part 1, an outdated legacy Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) may eventually need to be replaced because of compliance issues. Part 2 will discuss two more important reasons why you should replace your LIMS.

Insufficient Integration of Data Management & Systems

LIMS has evolved significantly evolved over time in order to cope with rapid advances in technology. This is probably most applicable in the field of data capture. Data in isolation requiring manual entry is a big issue labs must deal with because it decreases productivity and increases the probability of error. Typically, an outdated LIMS will also be insufficiently integrated with other software and laboratory systems, leading to inefficiency.
If data capture, centralization, dissemination or analysis is not automated at each workflow stage, productivity will suffer. Moreover, data will be more likely to be inaccurate. It will also be more difficult to oversee data and correct errors.

Bad Communications & Data Visibility

Laboratories equipped with a limited or outdated LIMS typically have problems being unable to estimate the timing and volume of incoming samples. If a facility cannot track the progress of test requests, laboratory staff must depend on inefficient and slower forms of communication, such as telephone or email, costing time and effort.

Benefits

The main causes of the above-mentioned issues are workflows that are inefficient, decreasing the speed of laboratory processes and increasing the likelihood of errors. The overall effect and the benefits resulting from a complete replacement of your LIMS are summarized below.
• Decreased dependence on paper documentation
• Improvements in sample throughputs
• Increased productivity
• Management of inventory control and media/reagents improved
• Remote access to laboratory or facility provided

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 Engineering Associates, Inc. has been involved with the implementation of over 50 LIMS systems rangNeting 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 Engineering Associates today at (410) 295-9500.