Laboratories and research facilities generate huge volumes of data daily, and the challenge is how to handle all this information and maintain data integrity. An SDMS (scientific data management system) is a document management system application that assists laboratories in the management of data produced by CDS (chromatography data systems), ELNs (electronic laboratory notebooks), lab instruments, and LIMS (laboratory information management systems).

Storing and archiving all data generated by equipment and instruments of a laboratory and SDMS provides peace of mind to organizations. Implementing this solution will help avoid transcription errors, controls multiple versions of processed data, and simplifies data archiving. In addition, data integrity can be ensured by audit trails.

The STARLIMS SDMS can enable the coordination of your lab’s data with other laboratories around the world, encouraging collaboration.  Biotech, clinical research, environmental sciences, food and beverage safety, petrochemical & refining, pharmaceutical, and public health are some of the industries benefitting from STARLIMS SDMS.

Data Sharing Solutions

As previously discussed, laboratories utilize various solutions like CDS, ELN, and LIMS for the organization of data entry, file sharing, and long-term data storage. The STARLIMS SDMS can help your team access data from a centralized location, create workflows, decrease turnaround time, interface with various instruments, and view data. It can also ease storage and retrieval, resulting in significant cost savings. Below are the key benefits of implementing an SDMS:

• Analyzes and reports on lab data and activity
• Captures, manages, and stores various data formats
• Handles unstructured data efficiently
• Integrates with LIMS and other systems
• Interfaces with lab databases, equipment, and instruments
• Supports data for importing and exporting

The primary functions of an SDMS are the automation of file processing, reduction of cycle times, extraction of valuable scientific data, elimination of disparate data sources, promotion of collaboration, and ensuring compliance.

Part 2 will discuss ways of determining the value of implementing a STARLIMS SDMS for the specific and unique requirements of your laboratory.

Alpha 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.