Modern genomics research generates an unprecedented amount of data. Faced with increasing data volumes and sample throughput along with near-continual changes in technology labs seeking to streamline lab operation and cut costs must in turn modernize their approach to managing, tracking, and centralizing genomics data.
“Information is scattered in hundreds of Excel files. We know it’s there, but it’s not easy to get the information we need out so that we can evaluate our processes.” Project Manager, at a Sequencing Services Lab
A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is software that allows you to effectively manage samples and associated data to improve lab efficiency. By using a LIMS, your lab can automate workflows, integrate instruments, and manage samples and associated information. Labs using LIMS boost their level of professionalism and their ability to meet customer demand in two ways:
- LIMS helps labs produce accurate, reproducible results faster and more reliably
- LIMS makes data from sequencing runs easier to store, track, and assess over time and across experiments so that labs can evaluate and improve operational efficiency
Do I need a LIMS?
Many next-generation genomics labs face the daunting task of trying to manage lab day-to-day activity as well as large volumes of data. Some of the most common challenges include;
- Coping with the ongoing and significant rise in the throughput and volume of data associated with sequencing runs
- Finding scalable methods to organize and track samples and associated data
- Maintaining connections between samples and associated data from the moment samples enter the lab to when data is reported
- Reducing the amount of time spent processing and manually managing samples
- Storing and retrieving data associated with projects, whether they were conducted yesterday or last year
- Maintaining in-house solutions such as Microsoft Excel or homegrown systems that are easy to use and relevant to the instruments and protocols necessary to move research programs forward
Selecting a LIMS for next- generation genomics labs
How will a commercial LIMS help my lab?
A commercial LIMS can streamline lab operations, improve the quality of genomics research, and boost the level professionalism of your core services lab. A good commercial LIMS should;
- Provide end-to-end information management of samples, tests, and results for next-generation genomics labs
- Accommodate different users with role-based interfaces to optimize lab efficiency
- Be easy for lab staff to configure and customize
- Offer out-of-the-box reports as well as the ability to create custom reports
- Enable a lab to get up and running quickly on its preferred instrumentation
A good commercial LIMS will help you present your lab in a professional manner to collaborators and granting bodies by enabling you to manage samples and workflows from end-to-end, ensuring the highest quality traceable results, and substantially improving overall lab efficiency and operations.
Five ways a preconfigured LIMS makes your life easier
To build or buy a LIMS
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