The integration of a LIMS (laboratory information management system) with lab instruments is a sound method for improving data integrity and increasing operational efficiency of a laboratory.
Instrument integration with a platform such as STARLIMS will help raise the volume of sample processing and decrease errors from data transcription. In addition, this approach results in greater job satisfaction among laboratory personnel by significantly decreasing time-consuming manual data entries. They will be able to devote their efforts on improving and innovating scientific methods instead.
Laboratory operations will be revamped by the integration of its instruments with a LIMS because the study and analysis of data generated will be greatly facilitated. Making this transformation possible, STARLIMS will increase safety and quality for the entire product lifecycle.

Best Practices

Following best practices will be crucial for the process of integrating instruments with STARLIMS. The tasks will often be complicated and consume much time and effort. As a result, implementation may run over schedule and budget, unless planning is sound and best practices are implemented.
For integration to be effective, it is important to know whether or not an instrument will be worth the process as determined by its ROI (return of investment). Below are the factors that should be considered.
• Frequency of use and volume of results exported
• Importance in terms of laboratory processes
• How its integration will save the time and effort of lab personnel
• How its integration will improve data integrity
• Ease of networking the instrument’s computer for LIMS integration

STARLIMS Integrated Solution

STARLIMS implements the latest advances of modern technology to provide 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 the creation and maintenance of custom interfaces to third party tools unnecessary.
Part 2 will discuss two Instrument Integration Methods for STARLIMS.
Alpha Engineering LIMS Implementation
Alpha Engineering Associates, Inc. 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 Engineering Associates today at (410) 295-9500.