Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the way laboratories operate, offering new capabilities that improve efficiency, accuracy, and innovation. From automation to predictive analytics, AI is transforming every aspect of laboratory workflows. Let’s explore some key AI trends that are reshaping the field of laboratory science.

Here are the AI trends in Laboratories

1. Automation for Efficiency

One of the most significant impacts of AI in laboratories is automation. AI-powered systems can handle routine tasks such as sample processing, data analysis, and report generation. This not only speeds up processes but also reduces the risk of human error, leading to more reliable results.

2. Predictive Analytics for Informed Decision Making

AI’s ability to analyse large volumes of data has made predictive analytics a powerful tool in laboratories. By predicting outcomes such as equipment failure or experiment results, labs can make better-informed decisions and optimise their workflows.

3. Personalised Medicine and Genomics

In the field of personalised medicine, AI is playing a crucial role in analysing patient data to develop personalised treatment plans. AI algorithms can analyse genomic data to identify genetic markers and predict the effectiveness of specific treatments, leading to more targeted therapies.

4. Accelerating Drug Discovery

AI is also revolutionising the drug discovery process by analysing vast amounts of data to identify potential drug candidates. This has the potential to significantly accelerate the development of new drugs and reduce costs associated with traditional drug discovery methods.

5. Quality Control and Assurance

AI is improving quality control processes by analysing data from sensors and monitoring systems to detect anomalies. This helps ensure that products meet quality standards and reduces the risk of defects.

6. Image Analysis for Diagnostics

AI algorithms can analyse images from microscopes and other imaging devices to identify patterns and anomalies. This is particularly valuable in diagnostics, where AI can aid in the early detection of diseases.

7. Internet of Things (IoT) and Connectivity

IoT devices in laboratories enable the collection of real-time data from various sources, such as equipment and sensors. This data can be analysed by AI systems to optimise processes and improve decision-making. Connectivity solutions streamline data transfer,  integration,  and  interoperability between different laboratory automation platforms and informatics systems (Mana Àbdaulh Ali Al Zamanan, 2023). 

8. Natural Language Processing for Data Extraction

In the realm of scientific literature and patient records, AI’s natural language processing (NLP) capabilities are invaluable. NLP enables AI to extract relevant information from vast amounts of text, aiding in data analysis and decision-making.

9. Robotics for Lab Automation

AI-driven robots are increasingly used in labs for tasks such as sample handling and experiment conduction. These robots improve efficiency and safety by reducing the need for human intervention in potentially hazardous environments.

10. Regulatory Compliance

AI can help labs ensure compliance with regulatory requirements by analysing data to identify areas of non-compliance and suggesting corrective actions. This reduces the risk of regulatory issues and ensures that labs operate in accordance with relevant standards.

In conclusion, AI is transforming laboratory operations in ways that were previously unimaginable. From automation to predictive analytics, AI is enhancing efficiency, improving accuracy, and driving innovation in laboratories around the world. As AI continues to evolve, its impact on laboratory science is only expected to grow, leading to exciting new possibilities in research, diagnostics, genomics and healthcare.

Did you know that OnQ Software and COMPUTD are hosting an interactive workshop at Analytica in Munich that focuses on the integration of AI in labs to enhance efficiency and innovation. Whether you are new to AI or have some experience, there will be something for everyone. Visit us at Analytica, or contact us. 

References

Ahmad Barnawi, A., Al Otaibi, M. J., Alhashash, S. Y., Alfouzan, M. S., Alotaibi, M. B., Alduways, A. H. B. M., … Alaqeel, M. A. M. (2023). Trends in Laboratory Automation and Robotics. Journal of Namibian Studies, 36(S2), 1993-2004. ISSN: 2197-5523 (online).

LIMS are evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and the changing needs of modern laboratories. Keeping up with these trends is crucial for laboratories looking to enhance their efficiency, data management, and compliance. In this article, we’ll explore some of the trends in LIMS.

To begin with, understanding the fundamental role of LIMS and its significance for laboratories is essential. Laboratories across the globe use a management system to manage data, inventory, and user permissions and this system is known as the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). LIMS provides seamless access to data, which can then be categorised and structured into various reports as required. A comprehensive LIMS can handle a wide range of laboratory data, from initial log-in procedures to result reporting. Let’s have a look at the latest trends in LIMS together.

1. SaaS LIMS

First trend could be SaaS, or Software as a Service. It has emerged as a leading trend in the LIMS industry, transforming the way laboratories manage their data. With SaaS-based LIMS, laboratories can enjoy the benefits of easy access, seamless scalability, and reduced IT infrastructure costs. This trend reflects a shift towards more agile and cost-effective solutions, allowing labs to focus on their core activities without the burden of managing complex IT systems. As more laboratories embrace the cloud-based model, SaaS LIMS is poised to revolutionise data management in the industry. 

2. Integration with IoT and Automation

Integration with Internet of Things (IoT) devices and automation systems is transforming how data is collected and managed in laboratories. LIMS can now seamlessly integrate with IoT devices and instruments, enabling real-time data monitoring and analysis. This integration improves efficiency, reduces manual errors, and accelerates decision-making processes.

3. QR Codes

QR codes are revolutionising sample tracking and management in laboratories. By incorporating QR codes into their LIMS, laboratories can easily track samples throughout the testing process. QR codes enable quick and accurate identification of samples, reducing the risk of errors and improving traceability. With the ability to store a wealth of information in a compact format, QR codes are enhancing data management in labs, making workflows more efficient and improving overall productivity. 

4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Trend in LIMS

The potential applications of AI in laboratories are extensive and can work alongside human efforts. Labs rely on extensive data use and constant analysis, and integrating AI and machine learning can significantly benefit these operations. AI algorithms can process large amounts of data quickly and accurately. In laboratories, this means accelerated data analysis, allowing researchers to obtain meaningful results in a fraction of the time it traditionally takes. 

To learn more about AI in labs, read our blog here. 

5. Compliance and Data Security

With increasing regulatory requirements, compliance and data security are top priorities for laboratories. Modern LIMS solutions offer robust features for ensuring compliance with regulations such as FDA, ISO, and GLP. They also provide enhanced data security measures, such as encryption and access controls, to protect sensitive information.

Data security is paramount in laboratory settings, and cloud-based solutions like AWS offer advanced security features to protect sensitive information. AWS provides a secure environment for data storage and transmission, utilising encryption and access control mechanisms to safeguard data from unauthorised access or breaches. Additionally, AWS offers compliance certifications, ensuring that data management practices align with industry standards and regulations. By leveraging AWS services, laboratories can enhance their data security posture and mitigate potential risks associated with data management. 

Did you know QLIMS has these features? From cloud-based convenience to seamless automation and QR code integration, QLIMS is your gateway to enhanced efficiency and data security. Want to see it in action? Fill the form below, or send an email today and experience firsthand the difference QLIMS can make in your laboratory. Let’s embark on this journey together towards smarter, more efficient lab management!

Optimising Core Lab Performance:
Omics Challenges Meet LIMS Solution

In the dynamic realm of core labs, where the focus is on unravelling the mysteries of omics—proteomics, genomics, and sequencing—the quest for groundbreaking discoveries is ceaseless. Core labs play a pivotal role in revealing new drug targets, diagnostic methods, and personalised drug therapies, driving the advancement of medical science. This brings to mind the big question “How to improve core lab operations?”.

However, to be effective partners to their customers, core labs must navigate the challenges of being better, faster, and more cost-efficient. The cornerstone of success in this quest lies in turnaround time—a critical factor that defines customer satisfaction. To elevate their commitment, core labs are adopting a bold approach: guaranteeing their work with strict deadlines. If a deadline is not met, a discount on the project becomes a testament to their accountability.

The key to achieving excellence is the use of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS). LIMS plays a crucial role in improving efficiency and innovation in core labs. It offers a strong foundation for automation, helps address key challenges, and provides a range of benefits.

Maximising Efficiency through LIMS Automation

A LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) helps laboratories to ensure the quality and integrity of their results by managing the details and necessary elements of conducting work in a core lab. The best LIMS generally come with pre-built workflows that are compatible with common instrumentation, so labs can start managing runs in the system from the get-go. 

Additionally, LIMS can offer powerful application programming interfaces (APIs) based on familiar and standard scripting tools that lab staff can use to create custom workflows specific to their needs.

By standardising workflows and vocabularies and integrating systems for seamless data transfer, LIMS virtually eliminates data entry errors that may occur due to manual entries.

In essence, LIMS emerges as the catalyst for progress in core labs, offering a holistic solution to the challenges posed by the omics revolution. As core labs strive to strike the delicate balance between being good, fast, and cost-effective, LIMS stands as a technological ally, propelling them toward new frontiers in scientific exploration.

Join us on a journey where the convergence of omics and LIMS reshapes the landscape of core labs, fostering innovation, efficiency, and excellence. Stay tuned for more insights into the dynamic interplay between technology and scientific discovery! 

To learn more how we can improve operations and run your core lab like a business fill the form below, contact us today!

Data has become one of the most valuable assets for any organisation, and laboratory data is no exception. However, accessing laboratory data has been difficult so far due to the use of outdated applications and architectures that underpin many LIMS applications.

Business intelligence (BI) and artificial intelligence (AI) are now supporting the field of data science, making data analysis tools more accessible. QLIMS has traditionally managed all laboratory data to become the source of truth.

Tools such as QLIMS BI can help organisations visualise this data and convert it into knowledge, which can take their organization to the next level.

Continuous Development and Agile Methodology

QLIMS is under continuous development, driven by agile methodology. Our full-time software engineers prioritise high-value feature additions through agile sprints, ensuring responsiveness to evolving customer needs. 

Our team follows a sprint-based approach to work, which means that we break down our work into two-week cycles. This helps us stay responsive to any changing customer needs and priorities. Also, before we deploy any code to clients, we ensure that it undergoes rigorous manual and automated testing for both new functionality and regression issues.

Ready to embark on a journey of enhanced laboratory efficiency and data-driven decision-making? Explore the transformative capabilities of QLIMS Business Intelligence today. Contact our team to schedule a personalised demonstration and learn how QLIMS can unlock the full potential of your laboratory data. Empower your scientists, streamline operations, and revolutionise your laboratory management with QLIMS.

Technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) transforming various industries, including laboratories. With AI revolutionizing laboratory operations, it’s time to explore how it enhances efficiency in the future of scientific innovation.

What exactly does AI mean? 

Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to computers that can perform tasks that usually require human-like intelligence, such as reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving. In a world where technology is rapidly advancing, AI is transforming every aspect of our lives.

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology has become widely used across various industries, governments, and scientific fields. It includes advanced web search engines, recommendation systems used by companies like YouTube, Amazon, and Netflix, speech recognition systems like Siri, self-driving cars, and generative and creative tools like ChatGPT, and strategy games. 

How is AI used in Labs?

The world of laboratories is constantly changing, with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning leading the way towards greater efficiency and expanded capabilities. The potential applications of AI in laboratories are extensive and can work alongside human efforts. Labs rely on extensive data use and constant analysis, and integrating AI and machine learning can significantly benefit these operations. 

Machine learning allows devices to retain knowledge from past data patterns, enabling them to make informed predictions and decisions. This technology is transforming various scientific domains, including robotics and biomedical informatics, among others, offering many advantages for scientific research entities. As companies increasingly turn to AI for laboratories, the potential benefits become clear.

The Benefits of AI in Laboratories

AI algorithms can process large amounts of data quickly and accurately. In laboratories, this means accelerated data analysis, allowing researchers to obtain meaningful results in a fraction of the time it traditionally takes.

Imagine having an AI-powered assistant in the lab, capable of suggesting optimised experiment parameters or predicting potential outcomes. AI is making this a reality by learning from vast datasets and offering insights that contribute to more efficient and successful experiments. 

An Example of How the AAII Research Lab Uses AI

Imagine stepping into a virtual reality (VR) space to explore the complexities of the human genome, a realm crucial for understanding the biological mechanisms of cancer in patients.

In an innovative approach, machine learning and data analytics methods were developed to model patients in this VR space and highlight genomic similarities and differences. This groundbreaking technology allows cancer experts and analysts to navigate a 3D representation of patient groups, bypassing traditional statistical clustering methods. Clinicians can now explore genomic relationships in unprecedented detail, providing the information they need to make informed decisions about treatment regimens. This transformative VR technology,  at AAII Research Lab in collaboration with institutions like The Children’s Hospital at Westmead and Western Sydney University, represents a significant leap forward in precision medicine. It brings a new level of precision to clinical decisions, especially in the field of childhood cancer treatment.

As we explore the blend of AI and laboratories, it’s clear that this partnership is transforming scientific research and testing. Adding AI isn’t just a tech upgrade; it’s a big change that can open up new opportunities for discovery.

Our QLIMS is a perfect solution to help laboratories seamlessly embrace the transformative power of AI. Stay tuned for more insights into the collaborative journey of AI and labs, we’re heading towards a future where innovation has endless possibilities. Contact us today to explore the possibilities that our advanced LIMS solutions can offer your laboratory. 

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artificial_intelligence 

https://solution4labs.com/en/blog/lims/artificial-intelligence-in-labs

https://www.uts.edu.au/research/australian-artificial-intelligence-institute/aaii-industry-showcase/industry-healthcare-clinical

Are you on the hunt for the perfect Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for your business? Look no further. Here are three compelling reasons why QLIMS stands out from the crowd. 

1. SaaS as a Solution

QLIMS is not just a traditional LIMS; it’s a state-of-the-art Software as a Service (SaaS) solution. What does this mean for you? This means that you no longer have to deal with the challenges of on-premise installations and can enjoy the benefits of cloud-based accessibility. With QLIMS, you can effortlessly manage your laboratory data from anywhere and at any time.

Traditional software installations can be a lengthy process. SaaS QLIMS changes the game with fast deployment, getting your lab up and running within a few weeks. It streamlines laboratory work by offering efficient workflows for sample preparation, validation, approval, and reporting activities.

2. Best-in-class Interface and Visualization Focus

QLIMS prides itself on delivering an unparalleled user experience. Our user interface is not just good; it’s best-in-class. With QLIMS, you can ensure that users can effortlessly manage and visualize data. The focus on visualization sets QLIMS apart by providing an efficient and visually engaging data presentation.

In addition, configurable options further enhance user interaction, allowing the system to be tailored to meet the specific needs of your laboratory. QLIMS is not just a data management system; it ensures that your data is presented in a way that promotes quick and informed decision-making.

3. Flexible Configuration

One of QLIMS’s defining features is its flexibility – a characteristic achieved through a configuration-centric approach. Unlike systems that require extensive customization through complex coding, QLIMS provides a non-code, configuration-based solution. This allows users to shape QLIMS to fit their business needs seamlessly.

The difference lies in giving users tools for configuration, not complex customisations. QLIMS grows hand-in-hand with your business, adapting to changing industry standards and evolving workflows without the need for extensive coding efforts. The power is in your hands, making QLIMS an ideal partner for laboratories seeking not just a solution, but a growth enabler.

Essentially, QLIMS 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. 

Choose QLIMS today and take your laboratory operations to new heights! 

In this LIMS case study, we delve into how Comvita faced the challenges of rapid growth and evolving regulations head-on. Let’s discover how QLIMS revolutionized their processes, making data-driven decisions a breeze and boosting productivity by 20%. 

About Comvita

Comvita is a natural health products company, based primarily around bee products. Since it was founded over 40 years ago, the company has a strong emphasis on science and research, with a focus on natural products with known benefits, such as Manuka honey, Propolis, and Olive Leaf Extract.

With over 40,000 hives in New Zealand and an 800,000 olive tree farm in Australia, they control their supply chain from source to shelf, setting a high standard for traceability. The company has expanded its reach to global markets, including China, Asia, the US, and the UK, each with unique regulations and governance procedures. Comvita has divided its operations into two crucial teams, the analysis and Quality Control team.

The Challenge 

Facing rapid growth and increasing data demands, Comvita’s lab and quality control teams were hampered by manual processes, relying on Excel spreadsheets and Word documents. The Lab Manager explains, “For us, the catalyst very simply was scale.”

With new regulatory MPI requirements for Manuka Honey, adopting a new solution became imperative. He notes, “The business went through a very rapid growth curve which meant the amount of data entry and testing required became so large it was difficult to support.”

The Solution

Comvita began by reviewing the business’ requirements and evaluating software solutions, under Project Manager. Being able to prove the traceability of all ingredients from end to end was key.

QLIMS cloud hosted with:

• Worklist Module
• CAPA Module
• Sample Splitting and Collation Module
• QLIMS Bridge for instrument integration
• Custom Comvita Quality Control Module

The Results

The big win for Comvita since the introduction of the QLIMS has been the speed and decision-making benefits provided by greater data availability, with information from the lab instruments imported straight to the database, and into BI reporting.

The lab manager says, “The biggest improvement we’ve noticed has been in productivity. We believe that QLIMS has contributed a time saving of 20% for our lab technicians.”

“We’ve also linked QLIMS to our ERP system via the cloud, allowing us to run Business Intelligence dashboards. This means people are able to slice the data as they need to make decisions in real-time, – You can’t do that if the data is in a spreadsheet.”

Your path to streamlined lab operations begins with a simple click, so don’t hesitate to contact us today.