Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is a software-based solution that is used in labs for data management and to process a large number of lab samples to manage laboratory workflow. Evaluating and choosing the right LIMS must be done after analyzing some salient features like cost, interface, the ability of the system to evolve based on your future requirements, etc.

In this blog, we will help you evaluate the best and most cost-effective laboratory information system that will suit your requirements in the best way.

What to Choose Between Online and Offline Model of LIMS?

The offline model of LIMS software is an outdated one. Some disadvantages of using offline LIMS are:

Not user-friendly.
No mobile app facilities
Reports can be generated. But patients have to get the reports directly by visiting the premises.
The patient's record is not synchronized with multiple lab locations
In case of a server crash, there is no possibility of getting data back. Less data security.
Future technology updates are tough to install
Maintenance is high.

Offline LIMS has some defects. Due to its unavailability online 24/7, the data collected can be stored only in a desktop, increasing the chances of data loss. The offline LIMS is best suited for small laboratories with only one clinical lab.

Why is the Online Model of LIMS the Best Choice?

The online model of LIMS is based totally on the cloud. Hence the data can be viewed from anywhere in the world if they are updated on the cloud. Monitoring live instrument data with the right tools will allow your company to make faster decisions with accurate information and support the on-time delivery of reports.

A time-consuming, manual process will be transformed into a fast, automated process, where human errors in collecting and processing information will be reduced to zero, allowing the company to concentrate its resources on its core functions and attain higher productivity and efficiency in its work.

Some benefits of online LIMS are:

Low Maintenance cost.
Instrument data storage for auditing purposes.
An interface that works with any Database or LIMS.
Get future updates as notifications
Secure environment
Track updates with the mobile app

Choosing The Right LIMS For You

Choosing the right Laboratory Information system depends purely on the requirement of the lab and the processes involved in it. You have to know the exact way in which the user data has to be logged in and the ways of analysis. This way you can easily find the exact LIMs software that would suit your requirements the best. Some of the requirements of a laboratory include:

Functional requirements
IT requirements
Interface requirements
Data management requirements
Error handling

It is best advised to have business flow diagrams that will clarify the workflow, requirements, and processes in the lab. This business flow diagram will help in considering the instruments and systems involved in the lab that need to be interfaced with the software for harmonized workflow.

Understanding the Functionality Requirements

Understanding the requirements of your laboratory systems cannot be explained enough as the utmost important feature for choosing the right type of LIMS. A LIMS software used for the mining of oil and gas cannot be used completely for clinical purposes. Before investing in LIMS software from any vendor, it is vital to check that the software completely fulfills the needs of the laboratory. This includes the process of sample collection and data entry to the process of report generation and saving of reports. The functional requirements should be clearly listed and cross-checked regularly even after implementation in the system.

Some of the functional requirements that need to be checked in a LIMS are:

Laboratory Test Processing.
Test scheduling.
Sample Collection Methods
Sample Tracking.
Instrument control.
Report generation.
Quality control and Quality assurance.
Statistical analysis.
Resource management.
Laboratory Safety and Accident Prevention Techniques.

Once the use cases that include the kind of user type, sample logging method, and result publishing are quantified, your functional requirements will get a lot clearer paving you for the best suitable LIMS purchase.

LIMS Future Upgrades

Choosing LIMS after a thorough analysis of your current needs is the best way of making an apt choice. However, the future of laboratory management might evolve with the changing technologies and more convenient workflow. Keeping that in mind, choose software from a vendor that is best suited for both your current needs and all your future needs.

Seeking advice on the improvement of the system might be too late when the implementation of LIMS software has already taken place. Jot down your requirements clearly and analyze the same with your team of experts who can justify the need for improvement based on futuristic updates.

When businesses want to add more locations, tie up with B2Bs, add a home collection module, NABL policy changes, the LIMS software should be able to upgrade and adopt it.

This will ensure that your business is on speed with the technology involved and can easily benefit from it in terms of productivity and workflow management.

LIMS Mobile Applications

Using LIS is the best method for the automation of Laboratory technologies. This implies that the process of computing sample analyses must be done faster, and more efficiently and there is easy workflow management with mobile apps.

Types of LIMS mobile apps:

Home Collection App
Runner App
Laboratory Owner App
B2B App
Patient App

LIS helps pathologists approve data from anywhere in the most efficient system and can be extremely useful to labs and doctors alike. This saves a lot of time on the workflow. Automation of doctor approval in a mobile app can help LIS make more decisions quickly.

These were some basic points that might help you choose the best-suited LIS for your laboratory. Choose cost-effective software for your lab, but don’t miss on the quality or vendor credibility while choosing the right LIS for your laboratory.

24/7 Support System

When you choose LIMS software, make sure you are provided with 24/7 support facilities. When you face any issues with the LIMS software, you can contact the support professionals anytime and from anywhere and get the issues resolved quickly.

Data Security in LIMS

Security of data is the most basic need for any kind of industry; especially one involving the data and reports of patients. Implementation of a LIMS is specifically done to make the process easier and more secure, safeguarding the patient information from misuse. This has to be done while improving the knowledge level in the organization about the system by sharing the lab information accessible across various departments globally in the organization.

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Every modern industry laboratories are under intense pressure to enhance operational efficiency and to decrease costs, while at the same time controlling regulatory compliance and improves quality.

LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is adopted across various verticals to meet the challenges. The on-premises system fails most of the time to offer the flexibility which is required to stay competitive in today's economic environment; therefore, an on-premise system is not agile, connected, or responsive.

Advantages of the cloud-based LIMS:

Integration, upgrades & implementation of the on-premise system indicate that the in-house IT workers have less time to work on improved innovation systems & this can also be a time-consuming process. There are plenty of advantages for your organization in case you move to a SaaS LIMS.

Rapid LIMS implementation:

You need not invest your time to set up servers or install the software. Most of the works are done already if you are using the SaaS LIMS. Apart from that, your lab can run on the unique LIMS quickly and also help your lab to be up.

Scalability:

Online-based LIMS are best for enterprises with inconsistent user requirements. With SaaS, it's simple to balance your works either up or down, based on what is happening on your business, and it's enough to spend money on what you make use. New features, services, and a user can be added anywhere by just with the click of the button. The skill that SaaS offers can provide organizations using cloud computing a straight edge over the competitors.

Accessibility and Collaboration:

Online based LIMS allows hassle-free, and easy access to your data anytime and anywhere from different locations, multiple branches, and various systems with a secure login ID. This accelerates enhances collaboration within laboratories in organizations globally. Apart from that, the ability to access workflows and data from where you hold an online connection.

Cloud services are providing mobile applications, and there are no restrictions for specific devices to establish the system.

Levels the playing field:

An online-based LIMS System enables every type of small business to possess the ability to provide the organization-level features and functionalities on a pay as you reach the top. This results in, the small business running a LIMS can be more agile and nimble when compared to the large companies which are still making use of the on-premise legacy system.

Decreased costs:

By using the SaaS LIMS, there is no license cost, just a minimal installation fee, and no need for any databanks or in-house servers, no IT maintenance costs for software or hardware. You can only pay as your subscription you need to choose, and you can pay for the functionalities you need. The funds can be used to invest in essential businesses as there is no higher expense based on the Saas LIMS, and this can fuel the creations that are required to keep your company competitive.

Automatic Software Updates:

When you are using SaaS LIMS, the service providers take responsibility for security or software updates and patches to keep the system up-to-date. This indicates you get enough effort and time from your IT department, enabling them to put efforts over other initiatives of the laboratories that add business value.

Disaster Recovery and Backup services:

Any business needs a perfect disaster recovery plan, and the recovery solutions & the cloud-based backup solutions which come along with the SaaS LIMS are offered without the requirements for a more significant investment, making this vital protection of data services enabling every business in the verticals.

Why is cloud-based LIMS the best option for your laboratory?

When a SaaS LIMS provides the prospects for essential advantages, it is not the right option for any laboratory. One harmful functionality of SaaS LIMS is that it is tedious to modify the system based on the company's supported design options. Executing a SaaS LIMS in a more prominent company that already possesses a higher developing on-premise function.

Below are some of the factors that need to be considered when you choose to work with a SaaS LIMS provider.

Security:

You rely on the company to secure your sensitive data when it moves to the cloud and when you work with SaaS LIMS. Most of the providers in the cloud perform an excellent job of offering a secure environment for your information, which are the highest vulnerabilities that are probably related to human nature.

Validation:

The vital responsibility for regulatory compliance always is based on the manufacturers. Few providers lease an online-based LIMS focus on a prevalence system, and this refers to the system of the cloud provider. Apart from this, the providers of SaaS LIMS handle any software patches and upgrades to make sure that you run the most crucial system version.

Integration:

You need to make sure that your SaaS LIMS has the scope to validate the informatics systems and LIMS instruments.

Service level agreement:

It's essential to create an SLA with your vendors that addresses any concerned areas and more. One of the best SLA can make the variations between the rollout of your SaaS time & cost and smooth execution along with the unexpected expenses made down the road.

Hosting options:

Some of the vendors provide a private cloud option that is facilitated within the facility. The opportunity offers different advantages of SaaS LIMS but with controlled and decreased security risks. A cloud can be single-tenant, multi-tenant, private, or public. A single-tenant cloud is simpler to less prone and validated to intrusion or data leakage.

Data integrity and audit trails:

An audit trail is vital to address various concerns of data integrities, both from product quality and regulatory perspectives. You also need to ensure that your LIMS online-based SaaS has a detailed and reliable audit trail for any data, and also make sure it's controlled on two different servers when compared to the data.

Simplifying certain things can add complications to the business processes when you move to the cloud. The decision to distribute SaaS LIMS will be presented by a mix of regulatory, operational, and security concerns that are unique to any laboratory. Working with the best online-based LIMS consultant is an excellent way to make sure that your enterprises require the best value from laboratory information management to new SaaS approaches.

Why only online-based LIMS wil...

Every modern industry laboratories are under inten.....

MocDoc’s Runnr mobile/web application is designed to handle the sample collection for B2B clients seamlessly. Handling a B2B sample movement can present multiple challenges. One challenge is the potential for delays and miscommunication, leading to samples not reaching the main lab on time. This can disrupt testing timelines and delay crucial results. Another is the manual nature of the process, which increases the risk of human errors such as misplaced or mislabeled samples. Additionally, coordinating logistics and ensuring proper documentation can be time-consuming and prone to inefficiencies.

Overall, the lack of a streamlined system for sample movement in the B2B context can result in operational challenges, delays, and errors impacting the efficiency and reliability of laboratory processes.

To overcome this, MocDoc has designed an application that is used by Runnr, the person who is responsible for collecting test samples from the partnered lab and submitting the same at the main lab. This application is used in the pre-analytical phase of the sample lifecycle.

Sample collection for B2B clients - workflow

In the process of handling B2B sample movement between the main and partner labs, several steps are involved. Once a partnered lab requests a test with the main lab, a runnr is assigned by the main lab to facilitate the sample collection and transfer. The partner lab generates a "Test Requisition Form" (TRF) that contains all the necessary details of the requested tests. This form, along with the test sample, is then shared with the assigned runnr.

The TRF serves as a crucial document as it outlines the specific tests to be conducted on the collected samples. The identification of the samples is typically done through barcodes that link them to the associated patients, ensuring accurate tracking and traceability.

The assigned runnr is responsible for ensuring the safe and timely delivery of both the TRF and the test sample to the main lab. Upon receiving the samples, the main lab validates and accepts them, carefully verifying the information provided in the TRF. Subsequently, the main lab proceeds to process the samples for the requested tests, following the established protocols and procedures.

Efficient coordination and communication between the partner and main labs, as well as the diligent execution of the sample transfer process by the runnr, are essential to ensuring the smooth flow of samples and accurate testing outcomes.

Benefits of using the Runnr app to handle B2B sample movement

Using the Runnr app, the personnel designated to handle the sample movement between the partnered and the main lab can perform the process effectively, as it is easy to generate and share the TRF, and also to record progress from time to time. Here are a few benefits of using the Runnr app

● The application enables users to generate and submit the TRF online, eliminating the need for manual paperwork and reducing the likelihood of errors such as missing records.

● Barcodes are generated to uniquely identify test samples in relation to patients, streamlining the handling process and ensuring accurate testing. They facilitate the correlation of samples with the correct patients and requested tests, reducing errors.

● Sample movement is closely monitored as the runnr transfers them between labs, enabling efficient tracking of delays and issues.

● Prior to testing, a meticulous verification process confirms the correct sample. This adds an extra layer of quality control, minimizing errors and mix-ups.

The combined use of barcodes, monitoring, and verification enhances the overall accuracy and efficiency of the testing procedure.

Incorporating a dedicated mobile/web application for B2B sample movement has revolutionized the process, eliminating manual efforts and errors. Seamless generation and submission of TRFs, along with barcode identification, ensure accurate testing and correlation with patients. With real-time monitoring, delays can be promptly addressed.

Embrace the power of technology for efficient and error-free sample handling. Try the Runnr app today and streamline your B2B sample management. Unleash the complete potential of your laboratory with our Mocdoc LIMS Software.

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MocDoc’s Runnr mobile/web application is designe.....

Going wrong in experiments taking place in laboratories is usual, but proper attention and planning can help prevent damaged reputations, wasted resources, and unnecessary accidents. Below are some reasons why laboratories fail and what can be done to stop them.

A shortfall of orientation with the Business:

Bell Labs, Xerox PARC, and other legendary labs can evoke images of complete isolation and extreme secrecy from the core business. Split-up sorting is significant in the case of organizations where rules and regulations head to balance new ideas. In this case, split-up remains as a rare problem.

The issue inclines that the labs do not have a clear strategy planned with the organization. You can see most of the labs offers kombucha by installing kegs on tap to acquire the creative things beginning and then start to evaluate with only a finite conception of their goals. Some of the team in the labs are not sure that they are charged with disruption or serving the core business.

The committee members and leaders should consider the importance of opening a lac, decide on how the lab will benefit or interrupt the present and future Business, should plan for a remedy in the case of disruption, prepare the works for how the new ideas are going to be executed, and more. The planning and other steps can be successful if it's made with the following considerations.

Vitality: Making clear and creative goals for the lab will assist both company leaders and stakeholders in understanding the intent and direction of the development vision.
Growth: Let's imagine, you have come up with an idea that is validated as well as requires growing outside of the lab. Now, where will you get the additional support for the plan? There are a few options like going back to an accelerator, an incubator, or into the core business. Possibly, troublemaking innovations will go outside of the core enterprises, as it can be developed in a further way and also secured from business-as-usual fingerprints and corporate antibodies.
People: People with purpose and passions are considered to be the heart of the most influential development initiatives as there is no chance for the lab to support the stakeholders who come up with new ideas and implement them in unchartered territory.

Lack of team balance:

Some people have good intentions and knowledge of the industry but fail as they do not have any idea how innovation works. Possibly, the leaders of this type deal with the development and changes as they deal with a problem in the core business. This will lead to more significant incremental improvements.

The other way the lab fails is when they are staffed merely by a team of external tycoons, whose only thinking is to set fire to conventional forms of operating burns bridges along with the organization. It means the people know the steps to build a business or launch startups but will miss the internal networks and knowledge needed to handle corporate networks.

It's essential to take a diverse team to be more successful at your organization. You also need people outside the enterprise, but you need to make sure that they possess different skills including employees for long with a passion for development, creativity and also should know the working nature of the company.

It's not much easy to maintain this balance, but you need to make it happen. The practical development team in or out of the lab needs to be diverse and purpose-driven in terms of background, function, and cognitive style.

The shortfall of metrics to trace success:

Innovation needs unique and creative thinking around economic support. Labs require space to incubate, evolve, or iterate new ideas. Return and financial need to be tracked over time and also should be insisted in advance even if your lab acts as a cost center that is mandated to experiment over the longer term.

Apart from this, there are some other essential things for the laboratories failing like Undervaluing ROI (Return on Investment), hiring extremes, building vs buying, meaningless hackathons, inflated expectations, the CTO/CINO/CIO dilemma, undue focus on interruption, poor project management, a big plan with no stepping stones, ignoring people by focusing on technology, and more.

Do you have any other suggestions to stop the laboratories from failing?

For more information visit MocDoc LIMS Software

Why Many laboratories Fail And...

Going wrong in experiments taking place in laborat.....

A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS): Why Do You Need One?

The adoption of Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) has become increasingly crucial. This comprehensive guide delves deep into the reasons behind investing in LIMS, shedding light on the myriad benefits it offers to laboratory operations. As we explore the multifaceted facets of LIMS, you'll discover how this powerful tool revolutionizes lab management, enhancing precision, efficiency, and overall quality. Whether you're running a pathology lab, clinical research facility, or any laboratory, this article is your key to understanding why LIMS is a game-changer.

Chapter 1: LIMS Software - A Paradigm Shift in Lab Management

In this digital age, traditional manual processes in laboratories have become a bottleneck, prone to errors and inefficiencies. LIMS software, also known as a laboratory management system, emerges as a game-changer, transforming how laboratories operate. It encompasses a wide range of functionalities, including ERP tools, data analytics capabilities, and virtual software. Let's explore why LIMS is gaining ground in modern laboratories.

1.1. Error-Free Precision

LIMS software is designed to be virtually error-free, a crucial feature for laboratories dealing with sensitive data. Manual handling of laboratory tasks often leads to data mismatches, incorrect readings, and erroneous updates. LIMS ensures impeccable record precision, eliminating these sources of error.

1.2. Centralized Data Access

One of the standout features of LIMS is its ability to provide centralized data access. This means that patient records and reports are easily accessible to authorized personnel. Clinicians, technicians, and other stakeholders can quickly reference and verify patient details. Moreover, LIMS automatically updates critical values and responds to crises, ensuring immediate attention to critical cases.

1.3. Seamless Integration with Instruments

LIMS seamlessly integrates with clinical instruments, streamlining the testing process. It automatically retrieves and stores test results in its primary database, eliminating the need for manual data entry. This not only reduces the risk of errors but also saves valuable time.

Chapter 2: Enhancing Patient Experience through LIMS

2.1. Patient-Focused Updates

LIMS introduces a new level of patient engagement by providing real-time updates. Patients no longer need to anxiously wait for their test results. Instead, they receive automatic updates via SMS or email, along with concise test result summaries. This not only enhances patient satisfaction but also ensures they are well-informed about the progress of their tests.

2.2. Sample Tracking for Quality Assurance

LIMS initiates meticulous sample tracking from the moment a sample is collected. It records clinical reports, phenotypic information, and even freezer locations in great detail. This comprehensive tracking covers freeze and thaw cycles, collection centre details, and responsible clinicians or lab technicians. With LIMS, samples are guaranteed to remain accurate and traceable throughout the entire process, ensuring the highest quality standards.

Chapter 3: Efficiency and Workflow Optimization with LIMS

3.1. Faster Turnaround Time (TAT)

Manual handling of laboratory processes often leads to delays in delivering test results to patients and clinicians. LIMS streamlines these processes, reducing errors and the need for cross-verification. It also efficiently manages and calibrates connected medical instruments, automatically updating them in response to alarming readings. This enhanced efficiency significantly improves the overall Turnaround Time (TAT).

3.2. Hassle-Free Workflow

LIMS takes the hassle out of managing laboratory workflow. The software automates workflow and records maintenance, saving valuable time. As processes are codified within the system, LIMS guides technicians on instrument usage and process handling. This reduces manual interventions for record movement and tracking, making the entire process hassle-free.

3.3. Streamlined Workflow for Doctors and Patients

LIMS offers dedicated login portals for doctors and patients. With preset templates for generating and sending invoices, it streamlines the workflow efficiency. Additionally, doctors and patients can easily access and compare current reports with previous ones, making diagnosis and treatment decisions more efficient.

Chapter 4: Productivity and Quality Control with LIMS

4.1. Enhanced Productivity

LIMS significantly boosts productivity in laboratory settings. It automatically shares lab test results across users, eliminating the need for manual distribution. Quick access to patient history is another productivity booster. Reports are synchronized with physicians' Electronic Medical Records (EMR) for rapid access. Automatic updates and alerts are generated for abnormalities, reducing the need for manual intervention. Furthermore, LIMS enables digital signatures, further cutting down on wait times for approving physical documents.

4.2. Quality Control Assurance

Maintaining quality in laboratory testing is paramount, and LIMS excels in this regard. Through effective Quality Control measures, identifying variations becomes easier. Quality Control results are stored as a database and can be compared to actual results, providing complete control over deviations or errors. With accreditations like NABL and others, LIMS ensures the highest quality standards in results and workflow.

The Future of Laboratory Information Management System(LIMS)

LIMS software is at the forefront of transforming laboratory management. Whether you operate a pathology lab, clinical research facility, or any other type of laboratory, investing in LIMS is a decision that promises to revolutionize your operations. Its integration of advanced technology, error reduction, streamlined workflow, enhanced quality control, and patient-focused features make it an indispensable tool in the healthcare industry. Embrace LIMS to stay ahead of the curve, enhance precision, boost efficiency, and deliver top-notch results while ensuring patient satisfaction.

With LIMS, the future of lab management is brighter than ever. It's time to invest in the future and take your laboratory operations to new heights with this powerful tool. Take advantage of the opportunity to be at the forefront of modern laboratory management. Invest in LIMS today, and reap the benefits of precision, efficiency, and quality.

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Published By Sanjana

Category LIMS

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