2019101512:46:38

10 Signs You Should Invest in Lab Information management system

Published by: Sanjana

The rise of new technologies has made the volume of data drastically increasing day by day. The data volume generated globally across clinical research, biobanks, and other relevant testing laboratories are developing at a faster rate. Surviving the vast data volume and influencing it for research or business is stimulative for labs, especially if they don't possess a regulated mechanism to use and process the data.

One of the crucial reasons to invest in the Lab Information Management System (LIMS) is that it is used for organizing the data disregarding what type of industry you belong to. Information availability and rapid data growth have resulted in the extensive evolution of data management. Below are ten vital signs that state why you should invest in a LIMS.

1. Your laboratory holds higher operational costs:

Leading the particular portion of the allotted funds into laboratory personnel for management and data entry operations.

A Lab Information Management System frees human resources from time consuming and unproductive tasks, and therefore, they are considered as the high saver for your data entry and management operations. You will be able to pay-as-you-go on any basis like monthly or yearly if you prefer to go with a cloud-based LIMS. This means that you no need to make any investments towards hardware installations.

2. You hold transcriptional data entry errors and are not able to share information (data silos):

It indicates poor data traceability, problems with connecting data across various data sources & instruments, and data's manual input leading to transcriptional errors.

A Lab Information Management System combines with other data sources and instruments flawlessly and manages the data in the laboratory in an enhanced manner. LIMS automated calculations save time and decrease errors for laboratory personnel. Apart from this, the information can also be retrieved accurately at any time.

3. When there is a risk in your laboratory data:

The sign is when you are not able to grab access to perceptive clinical information, no reliability, not able to follow the regulations based on your industries, making use of paper-based systems and spreadsheets to manage data in your laboratory.

A Lab Information Management System provided enhanced reliability and data security by matching the industry-related standards, namely 21 CFR Part 11, HIPAA, and more. It also protects perceptive clinical information by hindering user access of unauthorized persons.

4. When your laboratory has an inferior disaster management system:

Insufficiency of a suitable mechanism for data storage and retrieval in the event of theft, fire, or natural calamities.

A Lab Information Management System ensures data continual by copying data to mirror servers, storing data on the primary servers, and also make sure on the timely backups. The information can be managed in case of any theft, fire, or natural disasters.

5. When you don't have real-time data metrics:

The sign indicates when there are no updates to laboratory clients and users on sample processing stages when there are no notifications and alerts for sample expiry or inventory depletion, and when there is no real-time display of metrics of the laboratory in the main dashboard to watch out important problems.

A Lab Information Management System alerts you regarding the inventory depletion or assists in identifying expired samples with the help of alarms, and this makes sure about the timely inventory replenishment. The LIMS also helps you to stay updated on testing or processing samples in your labs by sending application notification or email alerts so that you will be able to know the critical problems instantly.

6. When your laboratory has poor traceability and limited data storage capacity:

The sign is when there are any difficulties in tracing the possible data instantly by searching over different piles of paper data when generating an extensive amount of sample information with the help of paperwork, and when there are too many piles of paper data in the labs, limiting the capacity in the data storage.

A Lab Information Management System assists in managing information electronically and helps to decrease paperwork. You can accurately and instantly trace information with the help of different tools. A cloud-based LIMS protects the data in the cloud, and this data is accessible in real-time and 24/7 available anywhere.

7. When your laboratory is unable to reach the expected productivity:

Delayed Turnaround Times and experimental analysis over industry averages, and influencing human resources for auditing, manual data entry, report generation are the vital signs.

A Lab Information Management System helps labs to plan data management effectively, accelerate operations, and execute different business decisions. It also helps in generating rapid reports and control an audit trail along with time stamp and date.

8. When you have sustainability problems:

When your competitors receive more orders when compared to you and when there are insufficient business agility and responsiveness.

A Lab Information Management System can help in making your laboratory business active amid the complicated global market.

9. When your laboratory lacks collaboration scientifically:

When there requires a high sample turn around time and data duplication for sharing with collaborators and partners.

A Lab Information Management System, particularly in the case of cloud-based, helps in decreasing errors, avoid data duplication, enables accelerated turn around time, and effective collaboration. Apart from this, it also allows us to achieve higher profit, market share, and productivity.

10. When you have no capabilities in customizing for your different data management methods:

Applying new changes to the existing data manually to the older records, and where there is no customizations option available with spreadsheets and paper-based systems.

A Lab Information Management System enables customization as per your requirements and is also considered as the highly configurable solution. Any new changes can be applied instantly on the original records and therefore saves more time.

I hope the above signs let you choose the right LIMS Software. Any other queries and comments on the Lab Information Management System are welcome.

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Running a productive lab smoothly is tedious. Whether you are dealing with multiple samples or if you have an excessive number of deadlines approaching, following the practical tips given below will help in managing your lab efficiently.

1. Keep an eye on your stuff:

Your inventory covers all the specimens and reagents your lab will need for diagnostic or experimentation analysis. An effective way of sustaining inventory is to use a tool that makes use of barcodes to identify, categorize, and track samples. Regardless, the labels you utilize for vials, racks, tubes, and boxes need to be suitable for the atmosphere in which they will be used. For instance, labels marked ”cryogenic” can come in handy for any reagents stored in freezers or cell lines or specimens stored in liquid nitrogen.

2. Sustainment is key:

Maintenance of the lab infrastructure is vital to ensure the durability of your reagents and samples. Refrigerators and freezers need to be sustained at the ideal temperature, Co2/O2 levels in each incubator should be controlled carefully, and the stocks of liquid nitrogen and other lab supplies must be replenished. Systems that can control your storage equipment, offering real-time notifications and updates while keeping detailed reports and logs of all parameter-related activity can make this entire process automated, with minimal human intervention, and will ensure that no other thing is missed. These types of systems work with a cloud-based framework and can integrate all reports in a single place and will notify the lab personnel if anything goes wrong.

3. Stay Coordinated:

Spending time in workflow management will enable you to enhance sample traceability, track inventory, improve overall personnel productivity, and more. Incorporating a LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is an excellent way to do this as it will note the movement of each sample during the testing process, monitor its custody chain, and enable users to schedule downstream processing, analysis, and testing in a smooth manner. Getting the most out of your LIMS by using barcoded labels is critical as both will aid in sample traceability and tracking.

Communication and coordination are also vital when incorporating any system that optimizes workflow. Holding regular lab meetings will enable you to create and control any LIMS you wish to utilize and also keep a good record of all lab activities with the help of well-annotated lab books and LIMS.

4. It’s the system, not the people:

No matter how organized the labs are, errors will occur. Designing barriers and openly discussing the mistakes will decrease the likelihood of them reappearing. By introducing multiple checkpoints and verifications, you can reduce the chances that the mistakes will stack up causing unanticipated consequences. However, this should not be done without compromising the speed of processing in the lab. Maintaining lab infrastructure, keeping a managed inventory, and coordinating your workflow are all kinds of barriers that can prevent critical errors. Managing all related data in your lab books will also enable you to resolve the mistakes as each test or experiment can be verified with comprehensive documentation even if the person is no longer a lab member.

5. Utilize Common Sense:

Some labs are specialized in carrying out a small set of techniques that need specific labels. For instance, Xylene-resistant labels for histochemistry labs. Regardless, most of the labs do not have tremendous resources with which to buy labels and equipment. Managing a lab cannot be like a one-size-fits-all approach. In this case, it’s crucial to assess what the issues are and to come up with answers from both financial and organizational standpoints. In most cases, simple solutions are enough. For instance, you can have signed-up sheets either online or on paper for machines like biosafety, centrifuges, cabinets, thermocyclers, etc.

6. Thinking Creatively:

Following the current trends are important. You need to make sure that you’re thinking in a creative manner even for simpler things as it can help avoid issues in the lab and also can enhance the research pace.

7. Collaboration:

Efficient communication is crucial regardless of the lab you work in, but with every member consistently working on various techniques or projects, it's possible that they fall out of the habit of collaborating. Lab meetings are a significant way to solve problems, especially at the beginning of the week, so that everyone knows what their tasks are and how to complete them. It’s a good habit to make a relationship with your office mates even outside the lab as this helps to have excellent communication.

Hope the above blog helped you to know about managing a lab productively and its benefits in depth.

For More Information Visit MocDoc LIMS Software

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Published by: Sanjana 2019073018:00:07

Effective Steps to Manage Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) Software

Upgrading your clinical laboratory might be the latest enhancement you are implementing in your lab. This upgrade means you are automating the key functions to easily maintain the workflow. To make sure that your systems work in a smooth, harmonized, and safe manner, consider installing a cloud-based Laboratory Information Management system in your Lab. The cloud-based LIMS is no doubt the best choice to make as it has many advantages. A few of these are:

The data stored in the cloud are fully encrypted, hence 100% data safety.
Cost saving as there is no need for server maintenance.
With effective data recovery, any data loss can be reverted.
No manpower is required as everything is stored in the cloud, unlike physical servers.

Below are some simple tips to effectively manage your Cloud-based Laboratory Information Management System:

Implement a Cloud-Based Service Desk:

The most important step to do while implementing a cloud-based LIMS system is to provide a mini web page for clients to find information that caters to the needs of every patient. The internet is the influence king of the virtual world; so most of your patients will visit your website first, before heading over to your lab. Set up a cloud-based service desk and assist your patients just like you would do in your physical laboratory premises.

Make sure the webpage has a live chat facility so your customers can chat about the types of tests they can do and laboratory locations. Providing a live chat facility can help you to follow up in case the customers log out of the page suddenly. Also, features such as patient portals and customer portals empower your customers to download reports through the website making them completely independent.

Ease of Mobility:

Investing in a LIMS mobile app or website is the biggest advantage that Cloud-based servers can provide a laboratory. Since the data is stored at a remote location and is not bound by the constraints of physical hardware on the premises, investing in a mobile version of your laboratory’s website or even an App is a good idea.

You can take patient satisfaction to another level when you offer your patients and potential patients the ease to reach or access their health information on the go. With a virtual service desk in place, going mobile would mean more and better interactions and increased patient satisfaction.

LIMS Software Staff Training:

It’s essential to train laboratory staff to unlock the full power of your LIMS software application. To utilize LIMS software effectively, you can segregate the employees, departments wise, and provide training accordingly. Delegating one person as the head of training in every department can take the responsibility of providing LIMS-related knowledge sharing and periodic training. LIMS software training can include configuration options, storage, and retrieval of data, managing your workflows, and reporting. Staff training in each department is very important for businesses to succeed.

Increase Speed of Operation:

LIMS Software, specifically designed for laboratory information management, plays a pivotal role in optimizing operations. With a focus on pathology lab software, LIMS efficiently monitors various aspects such as Sample monitoring, sample workflow processes, patient visit count, inventory flow, cash flow, consultant performance, and overall business fluctuations over time. Through the analysis of these metrics, LIMS issues performance-based documents and develops standard quality indicators and key performance indicators, providing a comprehensive solution for laboratory management.

Additionally, Cloud-based LIS (Laboratory Information System) enhances the speed of laboratory operations. While technology facilitates remote meetings, Cloud-based LIS goes a step further by enabling access to data from any location, granting the user the necessary access rights. This feature ensures a swift exchange of information, contributing to an overall increase in the speed of laboratory operations. By seamlessly connecting personnel across different locations, the Cloud-based LIS becomes a valuable asset in streamlining workflows and promoting efficiency within the laboratory environment.

Ease up the Implementation Process and Quality Indicators:

The constant check of quality to ensure stability in business is a major requirement for any industry. With clinical laboratory, it is more of a service quality check rather than product one. Hence, quality indicators are of utmost importance to a laboratory.

LIMS Software, specifically designed for laboratory information management, can efficiently monitor various aspects of laboratory operations such as Sample monitoring, sample workflow process, patient visit count, inventory flow, cash flow, consultant performance, and overall business fluctuations over a period. The system analyzes these metrics to issue performance-based documents, and through the utilization of cloud technology, LIMS can develop standard quality indicators and key performance indicators.

By integrating a cloud-based LIMS System into your laboratory functions, you can optimize processes and identify areas for improvement. This innovative solution allows you to identify and understand your business metrics, paving the way for enhanced business optimization through the power of cloud technology. Whether it's managing sample workflows or evaluating consultant performance, the inclusion of LIMS Software, tailored for pathology lab software, brings a comprehensive and efficient approach to managing laboratory operations.

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Effective Steps to Manage Laboratory Information Management S.....

Published by: Sanjana 2018082415:59:00

The healthcare industry, like any other industry, is not self-reliant. Since this is an ever-evolving industry there's no stopping for the challenges that arise or the solutions for it. One such healthcare solution is the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). The Laboratory management system has been providing healthcare solutions for the industry, over the past couple of decades: but what it is?

LIMS Software And What Does It Do?

The Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) Software started as a system to keep a record of test samples, their results, and all other particulars of donor and patient samples. From the point of its inception, the laboratory management system followed the traditional methods of manual labelling and record-keeping; it was followed only until the introduction of computers to healthcare solutions.

Ever since the Laboratory Information Management System has been on a course of upward trajectory.

As the computers evolved so did software. Dedicated LIMS software packages began appearing with tweaks and new features every time. The LIMS software today is so reliable that once a test sample is collected in the lab or patient's house, it is taken to a pathology laboratory and given a tag, it is almost impossible to lose track of it. The LIMS software packages can manage and update the progress in tests and can also update the results of the tests to the database in real-time.

To put it in simple words:

A laboratory Information management system, shortly known as LIMS, is a software that is used to help lab faculties in collecting samples, processing, and delivering reports to patients. It acts as an interface between the lab faculties and the database where all the information and essential details are stored. This includes all the tests conducted under a particular facility.

LIMS Network:

In its early days, the laboratory management system was an isolated off-network system. But as technology paved the way for more advanced secure networking, the Laboratory Information Management System stepped into the next-gen of healthcare solutions.

Standalone LIMS Software:

Even though the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) Software provides easy access to the information from the database, it isn't enough. Its information resource was limited to that one particular facility alone. The limitations of a standalone laboratory management system include:

Limitations in the storage capacity of the database servers.

The maintenance of servers at the healthcare facility itself involves difficulties.

Medical procedures that involve referral to different locations will require the carrying of physical records; which is an inconvenience again.

However the chances are less: if the servers go down it is almost impossible to recover the data unless there is a backup, which will require additional servers.

Since standalone laboratory management systems are not cloud-based, sharing patient reports via App, SMS, or Email is restricted.

Since there are technologies developed already to overcome these limitations, they should be employed immediately.

LIMS Software on the Cloud:

Cloud storage is a powerful technology than it sounds. Cloud storage has virtually no limits on the storage capacity, thereby immensely supporting the laboratory information management system and other healthcare solutions.

The data centres provide a larger bandwidth to access the servers. That is more than enough to provide trafficless access.

Since the cloud servers have multiple redundant systems, there is always a backup, and data loss is not a thing to worry about.

The centralized data centre for the laboratory management system makes it possible to access data from anywhere in the world with authorization.

The maintenance of these servers is extremely cost-effective compared to the standalone LIMS Software.

As LIMS is cloud-based, it can connect multiple stakeholders. You can also have control over sample tracking, processing, and delivery. And there is easy scalability in business.

Patient Accessibility:

The interconnection of LIMS software servers also introduces the patients to the inside of the Laboratory Information Management System. Since the LIMS software made the information easily accessible, the patients can easily keep track of their records. This also helps patients to keep their health records up to date with no effort.

LIMS Beyond Limits:

The LIMS software, even though started as a record-keeping and managing healthcare solution, has now evolved into a state of complete management solution. It has given a massive boost to the administration of healthcare facilities and also the financial management of healthcare centres.

Machine Interfacing in LIMS:

The LIMS software acts as an interface between the laboratory equipment and other devices. The Laboratory Information Management System is capable of interfacing with the database in real-time to import and export data. It also acts as an interface between multiple devices within the lab for better coordination.

For instance, an MRI scanner is only a scanning machine with an image display unit and a control unit. But, with the LIMS software machine interface, the data from the scanner can be stored directly in the database to the respective patient name. It helps the doctors to analyze the data whenever required.

Time Management:

Time management is one of the most challenging objectives of management. The LIMS software used in today's healthcare facilities provides day-to-day management solutions besides healthcare solutions.

The LIMS software can make schedules for doctors and specialists. It also helps in scheduling follow-ups and cancellations of appointments at the request of patients through IVRs and websites.

Since there is always a demand for time slots to access laboratory equipment and devices, including high-cost scanners which are a rare resource, LIMS software can schedule their time slots most effectively.

In addition to these, the Laboratory Information Management System also has the in-house pharmacy records maintained, notifying the maintenance of laboratory equipment and other services.

The AI of LIMS and its future:

The future of the Laboratory Information Management System has already shown us a glimpse of what it is capable of over the years.

AI is the future of every field and the Laboratory Information Management System is no exception. The introduction of LIMS software to artificial intelligence can automate pretty much everything in the laboratory management system and improve the quality of healthcare solutions. Smart labs will be the newest addition to the list of healthcare solutions by the LIMS software.

The advancements in various supporting fields such as microfluidics, biometrics, lab-on-a-chip technologies, and their automation have ensured the steady progress of the Laboratory Information Management system. The day is not far when the AI Laboratory Information Management System (AI LIMS) will be working along with humans and serving humanity.

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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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A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS): Why Do Yo.....

Published by: Sowmya 2018053118:00:18