A LIMS streamlines laboratory workflows and automates core processes by registering samples, tracking them, eliminating common sample management errors, and providing an audit trail. This enables laboratories to comply with regulatory standards such as CLIA, HIPAA, GLP, and FDA.
It also facilitates results validation and report generation. This helps prevent human errors from occurring in the lab before final reports reach clients.
Identifying Samples
When samples move from person to person and location to location, it’s easy for them to get lost or mixed up. Using a LIMS, a unique ID or barcode is attached to each sample, which helps the lab keep track of where it is in every stage of the testing process. Additionally, the LIMS tracks chain of custody (CoC) to ensure that all parties involved in the CoC have access to the sample data records.
Additionally, LIMS is able to feed control files into laboratory instruments directing them to perform specific tasks on the sample. The system also keeps detailed records of the instrument’s status, such as whether it needs to be cleaned or calibrated. Moreover, it doesn’t allow a task to be executed until the system determines that the instrument is within operating parameters.
LIMS can be deployed on-premises or cloud-based. On-premises systems require a dedicated server and IT support, which may drive up costs. However, a cloud-based system offers greater flexibility as it can be accessed remotely via web browsers from any computer, anywhere.
A centralized database of sample information, test results and compliance information can improve efficiency, accuracy and reduce the risks associated with manual record-keeping. It’s important to select a solution that is compatible with existing equipment and can be customized to meet specific workflow requirements. Also, consider a provider that has a robust customer support team and a wide range of integration options.
Tracing Samples
The process of tracing samples involves linking the sample to its related paperwork using a chain of custody (CoC) procedure. This is important for ensuring the accuracy of test results. In addition, it helps reduce error and inefficiency caused by manual processes and turnover of lab staff. Some LIMS are designed to automate this process and produce barcode labels that can be affixed to samples or containers.
In a LIMS, lab managers can easily track the progress of each individual sample. This enables them to monitor the status of instruments, stay on top of preventative maintenance, and ensure that laboratory personnel have access to the appropriate standards, reagents, and solutions for each test. Some systems are also designed to manage inventory, storing information like location and serial numbers for each item.
A LIMS can provide a variety of other useful reports, including which instruments are most frequently used, how long it takes to process each sample on average, and more. When evaluating vendors, look for one that offers this type of data analysis and reporting as part of its solution. Additionally, consider how you will deploy the LIMS and whether it is cloud-based or on-premises. On-premises solutions typically require hardware and infrastructure, while cloud-based options operate on a subscription model and spread costs over time. This makes them the better choice for many labs.
Audit Trails
When a sample passes through the lab, it must be tracked and recorded. LIMS creates comprehensive audit trails and chain of custody for each test, ensuring traceability throughout the process. Often, these records also include detailed notes regarding the test result and how it was handled by each member of the laboratory team. This helps avoid errors and ensures the integrity of the data.
Modern LIMS systems integrate seamlessly with a lab’s range of instruments, automating data capture and minimizing human error. This also enables complex calculations and analysis to be carried out quickly and accurately. Many also feature customizable templates for document generation, allowing laboratories to generate reports, certificates of analysis and other documentation for stakeholders and regulatory authorities.
Other features that may be important to a lab include sample receipt and dispatch functionality and billing management. This allows laboratories to track samples from receipt through dispatch and shipping, recording who sent the sample and when and if they were returned. It is also possible to record the level of access rights for a particular record, tracking who reads, changes or deletes a record.
To maximize the benefits of a LIMS, it is important that all laboratory staff have comprehensive training in its use. This can include training in how to input data using the system, navigating through different modules and interfaces, generating reports for auditing or other purposes and how to troubleshoot issues with the system.
Accuracy
A sequencing library index error can throw off an entire experiment and require a massive amount of work to re-prepare and resequence the samples. A LIMS helps prevent this type of costly mistake by alerting lab personnel to the presence of index clashes.
In addition to sample tracking, most LIMS solutions also provide centralized storage for all experimental data including analytical results, protocols and associated documentation. This enables researchers to efficiently access and explore the data for more effective interpretation and discovery.
For additional security, most systems include robust encryption for sample data transmission and storage, providing a layer of protection against unintentional disclosure. Depending on the solution, this may be implemented via secure socket layers (SSL) or transport layer security (TLS).
Most LIMS vendors offer a variety of software configurations with varying levels of customization. The choice of configuration depends on the number of instruments, users and level of complexity required for the system to function properly. Some systems are deployed on-premise while others follow a software as a service (SaaS) model.
When evaluating LIMS vendors, consider the availability of support resources during initial setup and ongoing maintenance. Look for a vendor with a dedicated customer support team accessible through multiple channels like phone, email and live chat. Inquire about how the vendor tracks and addresses software bugs and issues, as well as the timeline for new release updates.
