Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)

LIMS: Easy Data Capture and Improved Productivity

Although most of today’s labs make use of some type of laboratory information management system (or more commonly referred to as LIMS) to manage samples and improve productivity, the definition of LIMS functionality continues to expand as the needs of laboratories change.

Requirements in research, QC, pharmaceutical, clinical, environmental, and forensics labs are varying and continually evolving, ranging from simply improving workflow to achieving a completely paperless, totally automated solution.

Enterprise application software, electronic lab notebook (ELN) integration, and highly customized system implementation further broaden usability and ease of use.

Considerations for purchasing a Laboratory Information Management System

When beginning the search for the perfect system for your lab, consider the need for flexibility: Will needs likely change in the future? Since extensive configurability is a hallmark of modern systems, weigh those needs against budget constraints. Will you need a system that is adaptable to many different assay formats? Stricter regulatory compliance and accreditation requirements may also play a role in the final decision.