6 Clear Benefits of LIMS

Of all the technological advances that have shaped science over the decades, Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) are one of the most transformative. The software solutions are designed to meet the ever-changing needs of laboratories across a wide range of sectors, from healthcare and pharmaceuticals to environmental science.

The benefits are acute and help drive innovations like the SARS-CoV vaccine and novel drug candidates for treating inflammatory diseases. We take a closer look at some of the key benefits below:

1. Improve workflow efficiency

LIMS offers managers in-depth insight into laboratory workflows and performance. The software can be used to strategically plan day-to-day operations as well as predict project timelines.

2. Watertight sample tracking

From clinical pathology to oil analysis, samples are a mainstay in most laboratories. LIMS software allows scientists to track samples from the moment they enter the laboratory. This not only improves workflows but safeguards the integrity of samples and ensures labs meet strict chain of custody (CoC) rules.

3. Smart inventory management

Next-generation LIMS software takes a smart approach to inventory management in the lab. Platforms actively monitor stock levels and issue automatic alerts when supplies are low. Some LIMS platforms take things one step further and use historic patterns to predict demand. Whether its chemicals like ethanol and acetone or gases like nitrogen, hydrogen and helium, LIMS ensures lab inventories never run dry.

4. Supports collaboration

LIMS allows labs to store all data in a centralised platform. This gives personnel the freedom to access data from anywhere, at any time. When it comes to collaboration, LIMS has revolutionised how laboratories operate.  

5. Strategic instrument and equipment maintenance

From fully automated Raman imaging spectrographs to pipette controllers and electrochemical bench meters, modern labs rely on advanced instruments and equipment to carry out research. LIMS software actively monitors the health of laboratory assets and makes it easy to stay on top of maintenance and calibration. This improves the quality of data and minimises unplanned downtime.

6. Compliance

Most laboratories are governed by strict rules and regulations. These vary depending on the country and sector the laboratories are operating in. For example, British laboratories must comply with good laboratory practice (GLP) standards when carrying out safety tests on cosmetics, food additives, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and other products. LIMS software helps facilities comply with these regulations and ensure all operations are aboveboard.

These are just a few of the key benefits of LIMS. Find out more about other benefits offered by LIMS software, including integration with other tools like Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms and Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELN) in our complete guide, ‘What is a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)?’