What is a LIMS? LIMS is an acronym for Laboratory Information Management System. It is a laboratory database software solution that is used for the management of samples, laboratory resources, instruments, standards and other laboratory functions such as invoicing, plate management and workflow automation. A LIMS record everything from the origin of the sample right through the analysis results. A LIMS and a LIS (Laboratory Information System) perform similar functions. The only difference is that a LIMS is a common word towards environmental, research or commercial analysis, such as pharmaceutical or petrochemical, where as a LIS is more towards the clinical markets (hospitals and other clinical labs).
At the beginning, when a laboratory implements a LIMS solution, the specification, no matter how carefully written, probably does not completely reflect the user’s requirements. This is because the specification was necessarily prepared some time before the implementation. In addition, the process of implementation itself will give both user and implementation team a deeper insight into what is really needed.
As implementation goes on, the LIMS will change. The degree to which it can change to meet user requirements more closely will depend upon its own inherent flexibility. During the LIMS lifetime in production, it will be subject to many requests to change or enhance its features and facilities.
Matrix LIMS by Autoscribe Ltd., UK
Matrix LIMS is the latest advance PC based LIMS developed in the UK by Autoscribe Ltd., an ISO 9001 certified company dedicated to the LIMS and data management software business. It is virtually the most flexible COTS LIMS product in the market. It is unequalled in its configuration flexibility – easy to use configuration tools including a “configuration wizard” allowing free choice of screen and menu designs. Its framework is built on a common ground thus allowing simple drag and drop, no programming knowledge configuration utility to move across various industries.
Beside absolute assurance on ease of support, it also gives backward compatibility. Therefore, no matter when you start to implement Matrix, the latest version will always be able to access your oldest data. Matrix Gemini LIMS delivers a suite of tools developed to help the implementor to configure the system more closely to the user’s present needs, and to help the administrator to continue to modify the system as the user’s general business and particular requirements change.
Features such as a wizard-based interface and facilities such as a LIMS configuration knowledgebase fast-track the vendor, user or administrator in their development of end-user screens.
Business benefits at a glance:
- Reduced total cost of ownership through shared central server
- Minimized installation, upgrade, maintenance, validation and support costs through centralized server
- Minimized training costs through remote training after initial installation
- OneTime configuration enables unfied desktop client and web access
- OneTime configuration minimizes configuration effort and support costs
- Fully supported configuration for each site – screens, menus, access – with overall view for management
- Minimized transcription errors through maximum use of input devices
