Case Study: Connecting the Limbs of the Laboratory Through LIMS

Advances in technology and automation have made LIMS an essential and critical tool that seamlessly integrates with “limbs” in the laboratory structure. These “branches” allow for the completion of critical everyday tasks necessary for analysis, reporting, and compliance. In a small laboratory, efficiency is critical for managing a multitude of responsibilities. A LIMS system configured to meet the laboratory’s needs brings efficiency and peace of mind, ensuring that all information for each sample is stored and easily accessible for review. From sample intake to reporting, every “limb” of the laboratory relies on the LIMS to complete daily tasks. This presentation will walk through how our commercial environmental laboratory uses LIMS daily in different areas and roles of the laboratory, and how LIMS serves as a communication hub for the lab’s “limbs”. A sample is logged into the LIMS system, and pertinent information becomes accessible to the laboratory staff. An analyst can then log-in and retrieve a worklist or bench sheet for each test they are responsible for, including sample collection times, which is crucial for meeting holding times and planning their day. Analysts take advantage of automation by importing data directly from instrument files and comparing against quality control parameters to evaluate any given run. If a sample is to be sent to an external laboratory, it is also logged into LIMS to be retrieved as part of a list for shipping out. For reporting, team members can review each sample as a whole and ensure that all the information requested by the client is included in the report. They can then send out a document for customization. In addition to managing daily routines, LIMS offers the ability to review control charts and view instrument performance. These are just a few of the LIMS functions that this laboratory uses, and doesn’t even scratch the surface of what is available through the system.