For laboratories, data integrity, compliance and operational efficiency are paramount and cloud technologies offer critical opportunities. However, we know that with the move to the cloud comes the critical need for robust security and governance strategies to ensure that sensitive data remains secure and compliant with industry standards. In this blog post we’ll explore how adopting a comprehensive cloud governance strategy on AWS can help labs mitigate risks, optimise operations and achieve the highest level of data security with the power of QLIMS. 

What is cloud governance?

Cloud governance enables customers to define requirements for security, cost and ongoing oversight of their cloud journey and ensure processes are optimised and consistently followed, especially in sensitive environments like laboratories. A robust cloud governance strategy helps you run your business well and keep it safe.

For labs handling sensitive research, clinical or test data, cloud security is non-negotiable. Imagine a scenario where a lab unknowingly exposes patient data or proprietary research due to improper cloud configuration. In the lab world, these kinds of oversights can lead to costly data breaches, loss of trust and non-compliance with standards like ISO 17025, HIPAA or GLP.

What do all these real-life situations have in common?

• A lab exposed confidential patient or research data due to misconfigured cloud infrastructure.
• A company realised that it failed to protect a server with a password, leaving a database of customer information unprotected.
• An organisation discovered a misconfiguration that left it open to data breach.

All of these organisations -and dozens more like them in a variety of industries, including highly regulated ones like healthcare– had a cloud computing strategy that took advantage of cloud benefits, but left out a critical component: cloud governance.

In practical terms, a robust cloud governance strategy helps you run your business well and keep it safe, offering a level of protection against a number of avoidable risks: data breaches, intellectual property theft, damage to brand and reputation and financial loss, as well as the risk of being out of compliance with mandates like HIPAA. In fact, Gartner, the leading IT research and advisory firm, predicts that “through 2025, 99% of cloud security failures will be the customer’s fault.”

Creating effective cloud governance is a two-step process:

1. Understanding the four pillars of cloud governance: visibility, configuration, operations, and risk. 
2. Developing best practices for continuously monitoring, assessing, and optimising each of these.

In this blog post, we explored how a robust cloud governance strategy is essential for labs to maintain data security, compliance and operational efficiency in the cloud like QLIMS. In this second part, we will dive deeper into the critical components of cloud governance: visibility, configuration, operations and risks. 

We understand how crucial laboratory data is. If you’re looking to keep your data secure and in trusted hands, reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help.

Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) are crucial tools for managing the complex workflows and the vast amounts of data generated in laboratories. While traditional customisation methods involved writing custom code, a newer approach leveraging low-code platforms has emerged, offering significant advantages over traditional methods. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between low-code and custom code for LIMS. 

Understanding the Contenders

Custom Code: 

• Requires writing specific code to adapt the LIMS to precise requirements.
• Offers maximum flexibility but demands skilled developers and significant time investment.

Low-Code Platforms: 

• These platforms allow users to create custom applications with minimal coding, using drag-and-drop interfaces and pre-built components.

The Low-Code Advantage

1. Rapid Deployment:

• Faster Time-to-Market: Low-code platforms significantly accelerate development cycles, reducing the time it takes to implement new features or workflows.
• Agile Development: Quick iterations and adaptability to changing requirements are facilitated by the low-code approach.

2. Reduced Development Costs:

• Lower Labour Costs: By minimising the need for skilled developers, organisations can reduce overall development expenses.
• Efficient Resource Allocation: Low-code platforms empower domain experts to create solutions, freeing up IT resources for strategic initiatives.

3. Enhanced User Experience:

• Intuitive Interfaces: Low-code platforms often provide pre-built UI components and templates, resulting in user-friendly interfaces.
• Improved User Adoption: A well-designed, intuitive interface encourages user adoption and reduces training time.

4. Greater Flexibility and Scalability:

• Adaptability to Changing Needs: Low-code platforms allow for easy customisation and configuration, accommodating evolving laboratory requirements.
• Scalability: As your laboratory grows, low-code solutions can scale seamlessly to handle increased data volumes and complexity.

5. Reduced Risk of Errors:

• Pre-built Components and Validation: Low-code platforms often include pre-tested components and validation rules, minimising the risk of errors.
• Improved Data Quality: By enforcing data integrity and standardisation, low-code solutions contribute to higher data quality.

Utilising Existing Resources

A critical benefit of low-code platforms is the ability to leverage existing team resources. With intuitive interfaces, teams can make routine updates—such as minor changes—independently, eliminating the need for developers. These minor changes often represent up to 75% of the adjustments laboratories require, saving both time and cost.

QLIMS is user-friendly, and creating your fields and columns is very easy—just drag and drop, change the text. Just click on the Modify Page button and that is it:

Making the Right Choice

While custom code offers maximum flexibility, low-code platforms provide a compelling alternative for many LIMS configuration needs. By balancing speed, cost-effectiveness, and user experience, low-code empowers laboratories to adapt to changing demands and achieve operational excellence.

Key Questions to Ask When Choosing a LIMS Configuration Strategy

Consider the following questions when evaluating your LIMS configuration strategy:

• What is the complexity of your laboratory workflows and data requirements?
• How quickly do you need to implement new features or customizations?
• What is your budget for LIMS development and maintenance?
• Do you have in-house development expertise?

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether a low-code or custom code approach is best suited for your laboratory’s specific needs. In many cases, the agility and cost savings of low-code make it the clear choice for laboratories looking to future-proof their operations while maximising efficiency. 

Contact us today for a low-code LIMS and book your demo!

Laboratories face increasing demands for accurate results, regulatory compliance, and streamlined workflows in clinical diagnostics. A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) plays a crucial role in helping clinical labs overcome these challenges by automating processes, reducing human errors, and ensuring data integrity. QLIMS, a modern LIMS platform, goes beyond basic lab management to offer powerful integrations and features that support clinical labs in their day-to-day operations, compliance needs, and data-driven decision-making.

Streamlining Workflow and Enhancing Accuracy

Clinical labs often handle high volumes of samples and tests, making manual processes prone to delays and errors. A robust LIMS like QLIMS automates the entire sample lifecycle, from sample intake to result reporting. This automation reduces the risk of human error, ensures that data is accurate, and helps labs maintain consistent quality. 

For example, QLIMS offers integration with a wide range of healthcare instruments, including those used in clinical diagnostics. These integrations are facilitated through open APIs, allowing third-party instruments and systems to seamlessly connect with the LIMS. This means that whether you’re running tests on a haematology analyser or processing genetic samples, the data flows directly into the LIMS without the need for manual entry. The result? Faster, more reliable results with fewer errors.

Instrument and System Integration

One of the key benefits of QLIMS is its ability to integrate with various laboratory and business systems, creating a unified ecosystem for clinical labs. By supporting instrument integration, QLIMS allows data from multiple healthcare tools and instruments to be collected and managed in one place. This not only speeds up the testing process but also ensures that all data is centrally stored for easy access and analysis.

Moreover, QLIMS integrates with other critical business systems like ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) platforms. This integration facilitates seamless data sharing between the lab and other departments, enhancing overall business operations and enabling efficient communication between the lab and stakeholders, such as healthcare providers or pharmaceutical companies.

Regulatory Compliance Made Easy

Clinical labs operate in a highly regulated environment, needing to comply with standards like HIPAA and FDA regulations, including 21 CFR Part 11. QLIMS simplifies compliance by offering features like electronic signatures, audit trails, and automated reporting. These features ensure that clinical labs can easily track every action taken on a sample, from its collection to the delivery of results, and provide documentation to regulators if needed.

Additionally, QLIMS supports Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) management. This ensures that any issues or deviations from expected results are quickly recorded and resolved. By addressing problems in a timely manner, labs can maintain high quality standards and stay compliant with regulations. This feature is especially important in clinical testing, where accuracy and compliance are essential. 

Data Security with AWS

In the clinical field, data security is paramount. QLIMS leverages the secure data centres of AWS (Amazon Web Services) to provide a highly secure cloud environment for lab data. This ensures that all sensitive patient information and test results are protected, while still being easily accessible for lab staff. With AWS’s robust security infrastructure, clinical labs can have peace of mind knowing that their data is safe from unauthorised access and breaches.

OnQ Software is ready to take your clinical lab to the next level, are you? Contact us today to learn more about how QLIMS can be tailored to meet your lab’s specific needs. Reach out to us for a demo or consultation and see firsthand how the right LIMS solution transforms your lab operations!

Implementing a LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) has become essential as laboratories adapt to meet the demands of today’s technology-driven world. But how do you know which LIMS is right for your lab? In this post, we’ll walk you through a checklist to help you assess your lab’s needs and choose the best LIMS solution.

Before we dive in, if you’re not familiar with LIMS, check out our guide, “The Ultimate Guide to Implementing LIMS”

1. Identify Your Lab’s Requirements and Goals

The first step in selecting a LIMS is understanding your lab’s specific needs and objectives. Any good LIMS vendor will ask you some specific questions to have a better understanding of your lab, so it’s a good idea to prepare in advance. This will also help you clarify your goals and ensure you choose a solution that fits.

Here are some questions to consider:

• What type of laboratory do you operate (e.g., clinical, research, pharmaceutical)?
• What types of samples do you work with?
• How do you currently manage your samples?
• How many samples do you handle on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis?
• What types of tests or analyses are performed in your lab?
• Are there any specific compliance or regulatory requirements your lab needs to meet?

2. Define Your LIMS Requirements Based on Your Goals

Once you’ve outlined your lab’s goals, the next step is identifying what you need from a LIMS. We’ve compiled a list of key questions to help simplify the process:

• Are you looking for a cloud-based SaaS LIMS solution?
• Do you need API integrations to connect with other systems or instruments?
• Do you require integration with an ERP system?
• Do you prefer configurable or customisable LIMS? 
• What is your budget for implementing a LIMS? 
• How many users will need access to the system and do you need role based permissions?

3. Deployment Process/Aligning with Your Company Strategy

After you have found the right LIMS for your lab, the next step is deployment. A smooth deployment is critical for the successful adoption of the solution. It’s important to note that the deployment process requires mutual contribution from both your lab and LIMS provider. 

• What is your expected timeline for implementation? 
• How will existing data be migrated into the new LIMS? 
• How does the LIMS vendor provide the training and support? What support options are available from them during and after deployment? 
• Do they have a guidance document on how to use their LIMS? 
• Do you have an example of a method and workflow? 
• Are both sides clear on the report template? 

4. Go Live and Validation

Once you have completed the deployment process, the next step is to go live! This is when the system is fully operational and ready for daily use. Also, validation is essential to ensure that the LIMS meets all necessary compliance standards. 

• Are all users trained and confident in using the new system? 
• What steps will you take if issues are discovered after the launch? 
• What procedures are in place for data security? 
• Did you check to confirm all features are functioning as expected?

By answering these questions, you’ll have a clearer picture of what your lab needs from a LIMS, enabling you to find the right solution. Our team at OnQ Software has extensive experience with LIMS implementation and has prepared a detailed checklist to assist you in this process.

Reach out to us today and we will get in touch with you shortly. You don’t need to worry about navigating through this journey alone. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way! Contact here for the detailed checklist. 

As laboratories grow in complexity, the need for reliable systems to ensure data integrity and regulatory compliance has never been greater. From clinical testing labs to research environments, the risks associated with manual data entry, human error, and incomplete audit trails are real concerns. A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) offers a powerful solution to these challenges by automating processes, maintaining data accuracy, and ensuring labs stay compliant with industry regulations.

As laboratories grow in complexity, the need for reliable systems to ensure data integrity and regulatory compliance has never been greater. From clinical testing labs to research environments, the risks associated with manual data entry, human error, and incomplete audit trails are real concerns. A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) offers a powerful solution to these challenges by automating processes, maintaining data accuracy, and ensuring labs stay compliant with industry regulations.

What is Data Integrity and Why Does it Matter?

Data integrity refers to the accuracy and consistency of data throughout its lifecycle. In a lab setting, this means that all data generated, stored, and reported must be complete, accurate, and unchanged from its original form. Ensuring data integrity is essential not only for reliable research outcomes but also for regulatory compliance, as many labs are governed by strict industry standards like Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and ISO certifications.

Manual data management can easily lead to mistakes or data tampering, making it hard to maintain the level of accuracy needed. This is where a LIMS comes in, providing a digital framework that supports error-free data management. 

How LIMS Supports Data Integrity

LIMS helps ensure data integrity by automating the tracking and management of all lab data. Every sample, test, and result is recorded within the system, minimizing the chances of human error. Additionally, LIMS provides an audit trail for every action taken, creating a complete history of all data interactions.

This capability is particularly valuable in regulated environments, where auditors need to see exactly who interacted with the data and when. With a LIMS, laboratories can provide detailed, tamper-proof records that meet the strictest regulatory requirements.

Ensuring Compliance with Industry Standards

Compliance is a top priority for labs, especially those in fields such as pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and environmental testing. Regulations like 21 CFR Part 11 (for electronic records and electronic signatures) and ISO 17025 (for testing and calibration laboratories) require strict adherence to guidelines around data handling and reporting.

A LIMS is designed to meet these standards by automating compliance-related tasks, such as maintaining secure electronic records, implementing audit trails, and ensuring proper electronic signatures are in place. By doing this, the system not only supports compliance but also streamlines the lab’s operations, reducing the administrative burden on staff.

For instance, QLIMS is used in a wide range of laboratories and industries standing up and supporting:

• 21 CFR Part 11/Annex 11 conformance for auditing, e-Signature and security for manufactured items under GMP, 
• ISO 17025,
• Industry standards such as GAMP,
• Security and data privacy to meet HIPAA, GDPR, CAP, CLIA, Privacy Shield and others,
• Support for Right of Access and Right to be Forgotten requests under GDPR.

In highly regulated laboratory environments, ensuring data integrity and compliance isn’t just a priority—it’s a necessity. Implementing a robust LIMS like QLIMS not only safeguards the accuracy of your lab’s data but also streamlines your compliance with industry standards, reducing the risk of human error and non-compliance penalties. With QLIMS, you can seamlessly integrate 3rd party tools using API and ERP integrations, enabling smoother workflows and enhanced efficiency. Additionally, hosting on AWS offers an extra layer of security and reliability, providing peace of mind as you choose the right LIMS for your laboratory.

Don’t wait until issues arise – future proof your lab by integrating a LIMS solution that can help you meet today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s demands. Contact us today to discover how QLIMS can elevate your lab’s data management, operations and compliance efforts. Our dedicated team is ready to assist you in finding the perfect solution for your lab’s needs.

Efficient data management and streamlined workflows are essential for maintaining productivity and accuracy in laboratory environments. Laboratories not only manage vast amounts of data, but they also need to ensure seamless operations across various departments. This is where two powerful systems come into play: Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. But what if we told you that integrating these two systems can take your lab’s efficiency and data connectivity to the next level?

Let’s start with the first things we need to know, what is LIMS and what is ERP?

What is LIMS?

A LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is a specialised software solution designed to manage laboratory workflows, samples, and associated data. It helps labs automate tasks, track samples through their life cycle, and store vital lab information such as results, reports, and compliance records. A good LIMS not only simplifies data management but also ensures labs stay compliant with industry standards and regulations.

What is ERP?

On the other hand, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems are designed to integrate and manage the core business processes of an organisation, including finance, supply chain, procurement, human resources, and more. ERP solutions provide businesses with a centralised platform to streamline their operations and give leaders visibility over financials, inventory, and other crucial metrics across departments.

The Power of LIMS ERP Integration

While LIMS focuses on laboratory specific workflows, ERP is crucial for the broader business operations. Integrating the two systems creates a powerful synergy that not only simplifies lab processes but also enhances the overall efficiency of the entire organisation. 

The integration brings several key benefits:

1. End-to-End Visibility

With ERP and LIMS working together, labs can bridge the gap between scientific data and business operations. This gives lab managers, financial teams, and supply chain professionals a complete view of laboratory operations, making data-driven decision-making easier.

2. Automated Data Transfer

Integration ensures that data from the LIMS is automatically shared with the ERP system. For instance, sample testing data or lab results can be linked directly to production orders or quality control processes in ERP, reducing the need for manual data entry and minimising errors.

3. Resource Management

Laboratories can better manage resources, inventory, and procurement needs by integrating LIMS with ERP. As soon as the lab identifies the need for materials or supplies based on testing volumes or upcoming projects, the ERP can trigger purchasing and manage inventory more efficiently.

4. Compliance and Reporting

ERP integration helps ensure that all lab operations are compliant with industry regulations and standards. It simplifies audit trails and ensures that accurate reporting is available across both systems, which is crucial for labs working in regulated environments like pharma, biotech and environmental testing.

QLIMS: Beyond Standard ERP Integration

At OnQ Software, we recognise that simply connecting two systems isn’t enough. QLIMS goes beyond typical ERP integrations, ensuring that laboratories can tailor the connection to meet their unique needs. With configuration, real-time data syncing, and secure API connections, our solution QLIMS allows labs to optimise their entire workflow from sample collection to final reporting, all while staying in sync with the larger enterprise operations.

Here is an example of ERP integration for a pharma lab:

Whether you’re managing a complex supply chain or need to link scientific data directly with business operations, QLIMS ensures smooth, secure, and effective communication between your LIMS and ERP.

Curious about how LIMS ERP integration can transform your laboratory operations? Get in touch with us today to see QLIMS in action. Our team is ready to show you how our solution can help your lab achieve seamless integration, enhanced productivity, and more efficient workflows.

Contact us to schedule a demo or discuss how QLIMS can meet your specific needs. Let’s take your lab’s data management to the next level!

We’re excited to announce that QLIMS, our flagship Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), is now officially available on Amazon Web Services (AWS) Marketplace!

As a leading provider of LIMS solutions, this integration with AWS Marketplace means that QLIMS is now more accessible than ever. With just a few clicks, you can request a demo or purchase our packages. However, to ensure you receive the best solution tailored to your lab’s specific needs, we encourage you to reach out to us first through AWS Marketplace, click here. 

QLIMS is designed to empower laboratories with cutting-edge technology, streamline operations, and enhance data management. Whether you’re managing complex workflows, handling high sample volumes, or ensuring regulatory compliance, QLIMS is equipped to support your needs.

This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of our team and the invaluable support from our partners at AWS! We look forward to continuing our journey of providing innovative solutions to laboratories worldwide through AWS Marketplace.

Understanding the flow of work within a laboratory is essential for key stakeholders such as Laboratory Managers, Directors, Quality Managers, COOs, and CFOs. They often need to know not only how the lab is performing but also the origins of the work that comes into the lab. These insights are crucial for both operational efficiency and strategic decision-making. In this blog post, we will dive into the laboratory business intelligence reporting. 

Operational Reporting focuses on the daily performance metrics of the laboratory, such as turnaround times for testing and the volume of samples being processed. This type of reporting helps ensure that all lab processes are running smoothly and efficiently.

Management Information is more strategic, providing insights into key performance indicators (KPIs) that inform high-level decisions. These are the questions that senior management often asks in preparation for board meetings or strategic planning sessions. With a couple of clicks, you can access visualised reports that support data driven decisions.  

To address these needs, the QLIMS Business Intelligence suite offers a comprehensive solution. Without relying on third-party tools, QLIMS provides interactive, visually appealing dashboards directly within your LIMS, allowing you to filter and interpret data with ease. This integrated approach ensures that your LIMS remains the single source of truth for laboratory and quality control data. 

For example, to answer the question, “Where does my work come from?”, the QLIMS dashboard offers a clear, data-driven view of sample types, submitters, and sample statuses, as shown in the image below. This visualisation helps trace the origins of laboratory tasks, empowering you to make informed decisions and optimise lab operations.

Ready to see how QLIMS can revolutionise your laboratory’s reporting capabilities? 

Contact us today for a personalised demo and discover how our Business Intelligence suite can give you the insights you need to drive your lab’s success.

The need for a flexible, efficient, and user-friendly Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is paramount. This is where QLIMS, a leading LIMS solution, steps in with its configuration-centric approach, designed to streamline lab operations without the need for complex customisations.

Why Configurable LIMS Matters

The Power of Configuration

The power of configurable LIMS is its flexibility – a characteristic achieved through a configuration-centric approach. This allows users to shape configurable LIMS to fit their business needs seamlessly. The difference lies in giving users tools for configuration, not complex customisations. Unlike systems that require extensive customisation through complex coding, QLIMS provides a low code, configuration-based solution. QLIMS grows hand-in-hand with your business, adapting to changing industry standards and evolving workflows without the need for extensive coding efforts.

Adaptability and Scalability

The power is in your hands, making your LIMS an ideal partner for your laboratory seeking not just a solution, but a growth enabler. Essentially, a configurable LIMS goes beyond the traditional to offer a comprehensive solution to suit the needs of the modern laboratory. With its SaaS architecture, user-friendly interface, and unparalleled flexibility through configuration, QLIMS is a testament to innovation in the field of Laboratory Information Management Systems.

Key Features of QLIMS

True SaaS Solution

QLIMS is a true SaaS (Software as a Service) solution, offering accessibility and flexibility for laboratories of all sizes. This means that your laboratory can access QLIMS from anywhere, at any time, ensuring continuous productivity and collaboration.

Comprehensive Data Management

QLIMS goes beyond simple data management, offering features that translate data into actionable insights and knowledge. Laboratories can leverage advanced data analytics to make informed decisions and drive scientific discoveries. For more detailed information about the new functionalities of QLIMS, click here.

Configuration, Not Complex Customisations

Unlike other LIMS platforms that require complex customisations, QLIMS offers easy configuration options, making it simpler and more efficient for laboratories to use. The ease-of-use feature is just one of our many benefits. If you would like to delve deeper into why customers choose QLIMS, click here.

For instance, changing your Sample Manager main menu is as easy as clicking ‘modify page’ and ‘add new field to page’. You can even add some space and edit existing fields in your menu.

One of the questions we receive most of the time is, “Can I edit my users’ roles and accesses?”. Of course! You are able to modify your users’ roles with only one click within QLIMS. For example, while you are giving your lab manager the authority to approve sample results, you can restrict this permission for lab technicians. The process is straightforward and user-friendly.

Visualisation Features

QLIMS stands out with its focus on visualisation, providing efficient and visually engaging data presentation that enhances user experience. With the Visual Dashboard powered by Kibana, users can gain deeper insights into their data, facilitating better decision-making and streamlined operations.

AWS Qualified Software

QLIMS is qualified by AWS (Amazon Web Services), ensuring high standards of safety and performance. This qualification demonstrates our commitment to providing world-class cloud infrastructure for our customers. Our partnership with AWS means that QLIMS delivers robust security, scalability, and reliability for your laboratory’s data. We’re even officially listed on the AWS Marketplace, making it easier than ever to access and deploy our solution. 

Why QLIMS is the Best Choice for Your Laboratory

In summary, QLIMS is more than just a LIMS; it is a system created by scientists, for scientists, which works with how you work and what you are trying to achieve. The best results will come from a system that is lab-grown.

User-Friendly and Future-Proof

The intuitive, user-friendly interface of QLIMS ensures that all laboratory staff, regardless of technical expertise, can easily navigate and utilise the system. Additionally, QLIMS is designed to evolve with your laboratory’s needs, ensuring that you stay ahead of industry trends and technological advancements.

Enhanced Collaboration

QLIMS fosters enhanced collaboration among laboratory staff, researchers, and stakeholders by providing a unified platform for data sharing and communication. This collaborative environment accelerates scientific discoveries and improves overall lab efficiency.

Commitment to Innovation

At QLIMS, we are committed to continuous innovation, ensuring that our system incorporates the latest advancements in technology and laboratory management practices. This dedication to progress ensures that your laboratory remains at the cutting edge of science and research.

Get in Touch

Are you ready to transform your laboratory operations with a configurable LIMS solution? Get in touch with us now to discuss how QLIMS can benefit your laboratory! Embrace the future of laboratory management with QLIMS – where flexibility meets innovation.

APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) allow LIMS applications to communicate with other software systems and devices, enabling a seamless flow of data and workflows across the laboratory ecosystem. In this blog post, we’re exploring “Enhancing Lab Automation with APIs and LIMS: The QLIMS Advantage”

What is an API?

APIs serve as bridges, allowing developers to access and manipulate data and functions within a system. For instance, logging into a web service like Facebook involves using their API to access personal data.

In the context of QLIMS, APIs empower developers to integrate external modules, such as a sample submission app, leveraging existing data and capabilities without building from scratch. This enables developers to interact with the application through API commands, similar to how end users use a graphical interface.

Differences in APIs

Not all APIs are created equal. Key differences include:

• Power: Some APIs focus on data access, while others control application functions.
• Data Access: The extent of accessible application data and functionality.
• Technology: The underlying technology (REST, SOAP, RPC) affects developer interaction.
• Documentation & Support: Comprehensive, easy-to-read documentation and expert support facilitate complex integrations.

Benefits of a REST API

REST APIs, like those used by QLIMS, offer significant advantages:

• Lightweight: Utilising HTTP standards, REST APIs are fast and suitable for mobile apps and IoT devices. 
• Independent: The REST protocol separates data storage from the UI, allowing developers to work independently on different project areas. 
• Scalable & Flexible: REST APIs can be quickly scaled and easily integrated without much additional work.

These features enable QLIMS customers to run multiple high-throughput integrations and services simultaneously, maintaining LIMS performance for lab staff.

The QLIMS API – Platform Over Application

QLIMS boasts a comprehensive REST API that covers the entire application, supported by detailed documentation and expert technical support. This core component of our platform approach allows for the development and integration of multiple applications with QLIMS, offering a flexible, scalable, and integrated LIMS platform. 

Use Case: Automating with Python and QLIMS

A prime example of the power of QLIMS API is the use of the bridge module with Python. Through advanced automation, labs can achieve seamless integration and enhanced productivity, leveraging Python scripts to automate routine tasks and data workflows. This “BYO Python to QLIMS” approach has enabled sophisticated automation setups, significantly boosting lab efficiency and accuracy.

By integrating AWS with QLIMS, labs can further enhance their security posture, ensuring data integrity and compliance while leveraging the robust capabilities of the QLIMS API for maximum operational efficiency.

In conclusion, APIs are indispensable tools in modern laboratory environments, enabling seamless integration, automation, and scalability. With QLIMS’s powerful REST API and the added security of AWS, labs can achieve unparalleled efficiency and data protection.

For more information on how QLIMS and APIs can transform your lab operations, contact us today.