Laboratory Information management systems

INTRODUCTION:

This is a forum where one can share views and knowledge related to Laboratory Information Management Systems. Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is a software application that helps to manage vital lab data systematically, it helps to maintain traceability and integrity of data. It also mimics the lab work flow within the application so as to maintain detailed informations related to each complicated Lab processes followed by the scientist. Sample Life Cycle is the basic feature of all LIMS product that manages the sample work flow generally followed by most Laboratories. With gradual introduction of new technology LIMS further minimises the job of scientists with the introduction of Instrument Interface. Lab data are results of long years of hard work from research scientist, so this data must be archived properly so that it can be retrieved as and when required.

LABVANTAGE LIMS

LIMS vendors : The most popular LIMS vendor are Labware LIMS, LABVANTAGE, Caliber, STAR LIMS etc. Here are few websites of the vendors;

• www.labware.com
• www.labvantage.com
• www.starlims.com
• www.caliberindia.com/product_caliberlims.html

Key features of LIMS: LIMS has several purpose to serve in the regular activities of any scientific laboratory. The key features which most of the LIMS have are as follows;

1. Role based access to different modules and processes followed within the Lab.

2. Sample life cycle feature for maintaining the entire work flow of Sample login to Sample Disposal.

3. Audit Trials feature for tracking any modifications done during any process flow. It must track the modifiers's name with modified time.

4.  Instrument Interface module for bi-directional data transfer between LIMS and Instruments. This feature helps Scientists in minimising the extra effort of documentation.