Lab Management System

WHAT IS Lab Management System?
A lab management system (LMS), sometimes referred to as a laboratory information system (LIS) or laboratory management system (LMS), is a software-based laboratory and information management system with features that support a modern laboratory's operations. Key features include—but are not limited to—workflow and data tracking support, flexible architecture, and data exchange interfaces, which fully "support its use in regulated environments". The features and uses of a LIMS have evolved over the years from simple sample tracking to an enterprise resource planning tool that manages multiple aspects of laboratory informatics.

Lab Management System Challenges
For many organizations, their Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is a mission-critical component of their overall corporate Information Systems (IS) and is thus directly linked to performance. However there is some debate regarding the challenges of effective implementation. Using ten companies involved in refining hydrocarbons operating within the Petrochemical Industry we evaluate the implementation of a LIMS system, and examine the problems experienced. In practice we found a critical need for both user involvement and established, well defined training programs during implementation. Moreover, provision of transparent communication mechanisms that feed back up the management chain was recognized. We propose best practice guidelines for implementing the LMS system to address the key challenges identified.

Lab Management System Attempts
The LMS is an evolving concept, with new features and functionality being added often. As laboratory demands change and technological progress continues, the functions of a LMS will likely also change. Despite these changes, a LIMS tends to have a base set of functionality that defines it. That functionality can roughly be divided into five laboratory processing phases, with numerous software functions falling under each:
(1) the reception and log in of a sample and its associated customer data,
(2) the assignment, scheduling, and tracking of the sample and the associated analytical workload,
(3) the processing and quality control associated with the sample and the utilized equipment and inventory,
(4) the storage of data associated with the sample analysis,
(5) the inspection, approval, and compilation of the sample data for reporting and/or further analysis There are several pieces of core functionality associated with these laboratory processing phases that tend to appear in most LMS:

Lab Management System Solutions
Processing specimens is an essential part of making a critical diagnosis. Poor laboratory inventory management can lead to mistakes that create the need for samples to be retaken and re-evaluated, wasting time the patient may not have. Zebra's laboratory printers, specimen labels and barcode scanners optimise laboratory management by improving specimen identification and tracking from collection to testing.

Lab Management System Usefulness

A single platform for managing all laboratory activities through a suite of integrated modules.
A Significant reduction in the results input time and operator errors, through LIMS integration with laboratory instruments.
Real-time availability of analytical data even from different locations (Multisite) by publishing them on the web and results through e-mail sending.
Advanced usability, thanks to an intuitive graphical interface.
Role-based access and local user (multilanguage and multilocalization) for better use.
Highly configurable LIMS, adaptable to both large and small laboratories (Configurable – Off – the – shelf – COTS) by being able to draw the GUI, customize the workflow processes and events, and the definition of rules status and configuration of the calculations.
Short startup time of the system through the provision of preloaded data and imported data.
Maintenance of configurations and customized upgrades and future versions of the system