Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is software and a database that is specifically designed to handle the work flow, data storage and life cycle of samples in a laboratory. The software integrates all instruments used in a laboratory.

LIMS efficiently manages samples and the laboratory users' standards. Additionally, it monitors different critical laboratory functions such as QC/QA Quality Control and Quality Assurance, invoicing, planning of samples, plate management and automates the workflow of all the procedures in the laboratory.

How does Laboratory Information Management System Function?

In simple terms, a LIMS is a system that describes functioning of a laboratory. In bigger laboratories, multiple research and experiments are conducted at any given point of time. The experiments and the research work continue for long durations that could extend to several weeks, month or even years. In such scenario, a LIMS becomes a necessity in order to monitor and overlook all work done in the laboratory.

Besides, monitoring LIMS also stores information in a database that proves useful to determine the different stages of research and their corresponding outcomes and status of samples used at every stage of experiment.

The basic information that is entered in Laboratory Information Management System is information about different samples, their lot number and date. Besides, storing the data about samples and tests, LIMS can also generate customized reports that can pinpoint at specific points in the life cycle of the sample during the test.

Advantages offered by LIMS

• Storage of Data in Digital Format: LIMS is equipped with a database that can store all the data of the tests conducted. The data needs to be transferred manually while majority of the time is transferred electronically (automatically). With LIMS, the analytical worksheets or lab notebooks need not be preserved or stored for future reference, all data is stored digitally that can be retrieved whenever needed. This characteristic of the system saves space and time.

• Automated Calculations: In addition to maintaining the workflow and database of the test, LIMS can also perform complex calculations. This leads to accurate results as the risk of calculation errors is completely eliminated and there is no need to re-check the calculations manually for accuracy. This feature helps in reduction in turnaround time in tests.

• Calibration of Laboratory Instruments: It is necessary for every instrument in the laboratory to function as per the specifications. Error in instrument function will lead to less accurate results, which is not acceptable.

Some LIMS have the functionality where it stores the calibration status of every instrument along with its due date (when the instrument must be calibrated for proper functioning) in its database. When the calibration due date of any instrument is reached it alerts the concerned authority about the status of instrument. Only when the instrument is calibrated, the status of instrument changes to approved.

There are many benefits associated with LIMS. Besides, the systems can be customized as per laboratory requirements. Many LIMS vendors offer customized Laboratory Information Management System that reduces the work force required to maintain the database in a laboratory.