Lab IT Compliance and Validation of Computerized Laboratory Systems

This is the topic we deal with in our new whitepaper “Digitization of laboratories in the life sciences – still plenty of room for improvement”. According to a study by Fraunhofer IPA, there is still a lot of potential for optimization in the digitization of laboratory processes. We often still encounter many analog processes and activities in everyday laboratory work that could be supported and accelerated with the help of IT tools and systems or even technologies such as augmented reality. In addition, isolated solutions with laboratory devices and systems from a wide range of manufacturers that do not communicate with each other, or only communicate with each other to a limited extent, must be eliminated.

The tasks and issues involved in increasing the degree of digitization, automation and networking in your laboratory are complex and multifaceted.

Of course, lab executives and employees want to continue to drive digitization. “However, reality stands in the way of this desire,” says study author Milena Frahm of the Laboratory Automation and Bioproduction Technology department at Fraunhofer IPA. “In many laboratories, digitization is progressing so slowly mainly because of a lack of time, money and interfaces.” Respondents saw another major obstacle in gaining the acceptance of all employees for digital solutions. In addition, many laboratory employees and managers said they knew too little about the technical possibilities of new technologies to be able to identify meaningful IT application areas for laboratories.

This is where IT specialists – like those at DHC – are needed, who not only have the necessary IT know-how on systems and equipment, but also bring in-depth knowledge of laboratory processes, IT compliance issues, validation and qualification, and the specific industry requirements. After all, despite the digitization initiative, your lab team should still have priority time for its value-added activities.

Digitization in the lab can be driven in a number of ways.
Here are some examples that can help:

Introducing Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS)
LIMS are purpose-built software solutions that automate the management of laboratory processes, samples, analyses and data. By implementing a LIMS, laboratory results can be efficiently recorded, managed and shared.

Automation of laboratory processes
Routine laboratory tasks can be automated through the use of robots and automated systems. This increases efficiency, reduces errors, and allows experiments and analyses to be performed more quickly.

Use of data analysis and artificial intelligence
Digitization enables the collection of large amounts of data in the laboratory. By using data analysis methods and artificial intelligence, patterns and relationships in the data can be identified to generate insights and predictions. This can increase the effectiveness of research and development in the lab.

Implementation of electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs)
ELNs replace traditional paper lab notebooks with electronic records. These allow for better organization, searching, and sharing of laboratory information. ELNs also provide the ability to link data directly to other systems, such as LIMS or data analysis tools.

Networking and integration of systems
Digitization in the laboratory requires the integration of various systems to enable seamless data flow and communication. This includes the integration of measurement devices, analysis software, LIMS, ELNs and other relevant systems.

Staff training and education
To drive digitization in the laboratory, it is important that laboratory staff have the necessary digital skills. Training and education should be provided to ensure that staff are familiar with digital tools and technologies and can use them effectively.

These approaches can help drive digitization in the laboratory and increase the efficiency, accuracy, and productivity of laboratory work. It is important to consider the specific needs and goals of the lab and choose appropriate digital solutions to achieve the best possible results.”