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).

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!

As laboratories continue to grapple with an increasing volume of data, implementing a solution becomes a necessity. LIMS is a solution designed to help laboratories manage their data effectively. With the increasing volume of data generated in labs, LIMS offers advanced features to streamline workflows and improve data accuracy. From sample collection to analysis, LIMS ensures seamless integration of data across the entire laboratory workflow. By adopting LIMS, laboratories can improve their efficiency and pave the way for scientific breakthroughs. In this blog article, we will dive into how LIMS optimises data management in laboratories.

Data Management Benefits with LIMS

Let’s Move Beyond Traditional Notebooks

Navigating through the maze of lab data stored in notebooks can be a challenging task. While it may seem easy to jot down numbers or attach result printouts, the real challenge arises when you need to retrieve that information months later without any hassle. This becomes crucial when compiling reports or facing audits. Managing lab data often involves manual transposition into spreadsheets or databases, followed by constructing control charts and turnaround time calculations, which is a time-consuming and error-prone process. However with the introduction of a cutting-edge Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), these inefficiencies can be transcended.

LIMS not only takes the hassle out of data management but also enhances control and accessibility. No longer do you need to manually transfer results; LIMS can seamlessly integrate with instruments and other systems. This integration brings forth a wealth of functionalities, significantly reducing the likelihood of manual data errors. Moreover, it fosters interdepartmental collaboration by providing convenient access to manufacturing data for easy comparison with lab data. In essence, LIMS doesn’t just simplify; it revolutionises lab data management, freeing your team from tedious manual tasks and empowering them to focus on what matters most—accelerating scientific progress.

Understanding the Data Lifecycle

Successful data management begins with a thorough understanding of the data lifecycle. LIMS takes a comprehensive approach, starting with the initial stage of sample collection. The system facilitates the seamless entry of sample data, ensuring accuracy and eliminating the risk of manual errors. As samples progress through various stages of processing, LIMS maintains a detailed and traceable record, capturing every step in the laboratory procedures.

Automating Workflows

A key strength of LIMS lies in its capacity to automate workflows, addressing the challenge of diverse laboratory processes. By optimising tasks such as sample preparation and analysis, LIMS not only reduces manual effort but also minimises the potential for errors, contributing significantly to enhanced data accuracy.

Upholding Data Integrity

Data integrity is of paramount importance, especially in regulated laboratories. It involves protecting and ensuring the compliance of data and records with regulatory standards. LIMS plays a crucial role in upholding these principles by providing a solid foundation for adhering to industry regulations and ensuring quality assurance. It ensures data integrity by meticulously documenting sample journeys and implementing strict quality control measures, making it an essential component of the laboratory workflow.

Did you know QLIMS has been at the forefront of lab management for a quarter of a century? You can read one of our case studies with Comvita, one of the largest honey companies, here and discover how QLIMS revolutionised their processes, making data-driven decisions a breeze and boosting productivity by 20%.

Our extensive experience has empowered numerous laboratories, transforming their data management and accelerating scientific progress. If you are ready to revolutionise your lab’s efficiency, just fill the form above to learn more!

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.

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! 

Adopting Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) in the modern laboratory landscape is no longer a luxury but a necessity. LIMS can transform your laboratory operations and elevate your productivity.  If you’re unsure whether LIMS is right for your laboratory, here are 5 reasons why LIMS:

1. Streamlined Data Management:

LIMS streamlines manual data entry and paperwork. A centralised digital hub ensures accuracy, accessibility, and data integrity, eliminating the need to search through stacks of paperwork.

One of our dairy industry trailblazers shared their experience:  “QLIMS has been a real time-saver for us, giving us an extra 3 hours every day! Instead of spending time on data management and manual work, we now focus on what truly matters – production and innovation.”

2. Enhanced Efficiency:

Laboratory processes can be intricate and time-consuming. LIMS automates routine tasks, reduces human error, and optimises workflows. The result? Faster turnaround times, increased productivity, and efficient operation.

3. Unparalleled Quality Control:

LIMS offers real-time monitoring and quality control checks throughout the testing process. It helps detect deviations and ensures consistent accuracy and reliability in your results.

Yet, the story doesn’t end there. Have you ever explored the insightful narratives showcased in our QLIMS case studies? These detailed accounts shed light on how QLIMS has revolutionised quality control by simplifying data-driven decision-making, resulting in an impressive 20% increase in quality assurance productivity, read more here. 

4. Regulatory Compliance:

Meeting industry regulations and standards is non-negotiable. LIMS simplifies regulatory compliance with audit trails, electronic signatures, and documentation to meet stringent requirements. You can face inspections with confidence.

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.

5. Enhanced Sample Traceability:

Track your samples from the moment they enter the lab to the moment you report the results. LIMS offers complete traceability, helping you manage and locate samples with ease.

In conclusion, LIMS isn’t just a tool; it’s a game-changer for laboratory operations. It revolutionizes data management, boosts efficiency, ensures quality control, aids regulatory compliance and encourages collaboration. The investment in LIMS leads to long-term cost savings and enhanced laboratory performance.

Ready to unlock the potential of LIMS for your laboratory? Contact us today to explore how LIMS can reshape your operations and drive your laboratory to new heights.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as Industry 4.0, is transforming industries worldwide with the integration of digital technologies, data analytics, and automation. Laboratories, critical centres for research, quality control and compliance, are also part of this revolution. Let’s explore how Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) are playing a pivotal role in driving laboratories into the future of Industry 4.0.

The Evolution of Industry 4.0

Industry 4.0 represents a shift towards innovative, connected production and data-driven decision-making. It includes technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and cloud computing to enhance operational efficiency and productivity. Laboratories from many industries are embracing these innovations to stay competitive.

LIMS has been pivotal in this transformation. It does not only streamline data management but also acts as the bridge connecting laboratories to Industry 4.0 technologies. 

How QLIMS Revolutionizes Laboratories in Industry 4.0

One of the cornerstones of Industry 4.0 is seamless data integration and connectivity. That’s where QLIMS steps in, offering a range of advanced features designed to empower laboratories in the Industry 4.0 era. 

QLIMS goes beyond traditional laboratory management by seamlessly integrating with ERP systems. This integration ensures that your laboratory operations are in sync with the broader business processes.QLIMS also provides complete API access, offering flexibility for your laboratory’s unique needs. QLIMS has a comprehensive REST API encompassing the entire application which is well documented, with technical support available from the OnQ support team and our regional certified partners. QLIMS customers can benefit from having multiple high throughput integrations and services running simultaneously without impacting the performance of the LIMS for laboratory staff.

The QLIMS Platform already hosts third-party applications designed to simplify a scientist’s life and empower your business. These include tools for rapid data migration, cloud-based data management, mobile data collection, instrument integration, label generation, clinical decision support, and Sync for IoT device integration and data streaming. With QLIMS, your laboratory is not confined to traditional boundaries; it becomes a dynamic hub for innovation.

The future of technology has arrived, and laboratories are no exception. QLIMS enables you to embrace this transformative journey. Start with one of our QLIMS SaaS packages, and within a few weeks, you’ll be up and running on the latest version. QLIMS scales with your demands, ensuring your laboratory remains at the forefront of Industry 4.0.

Contacting us is as easy as dialling +61 3 8582 6999 (or +31 6 48 157 331 for European customers), sending an email to info@onqsoft.com, or simply filling out the form here.

The discipline of materials science requires the study of the properties, composition, and structural properties of solid materials. Materials science laboratories play a crucial role in the development and modification of materials to achieve desired properties and improved performance characteristics. Within this context, Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) emerge as invaluable tools, supporting material science laboratories in their critical roles.

Material Science laboratories are data-rich environments where vast amounts of information and numerous samples are generated and managed regularly. Researchers conduct experiments, collect data on material properties, compositions, and structures, and store various samples for analysis and future reference. This data and sample management can quickly become overwhelming without the right tools and systems in place.

LIMS Supporting Material Science

At this stage, LIMS comes on the scene, providing invaluable support to Material Science Labs as they struggle with the data and sample management challenges. LIMS efficiently organize data from experiments, making it easily searchable.

Additionally, it streamlines the management of sample inventories, ensuring proper storage and tracking of materials. With LIMS, Material Scientists can maintain data integrity, streamline workflows, and optimise their research efforts, ultimately accelerating progress in the field of material science.

However, the journey of material science labs doesn’t stop at data and sample management. Material Science labs must also ensure that they comply with regulations and standards. LIMS helps laboratories to meet these standards, and streamline reporting. As an example, the ISO 17025 standard encompasses fundamental criteria for the proficiency of laboratories involved in testing. Given the complex nature of many materials characterization studies, ensuring the precision and accuracy of results is extremely important.

In conclusion, LIMS revolutionises the world of material science laboratories by simplifying data and sample management, ensuring compliance with rigorous standards, and fostering the acceleration of research and innovation. With LIMS as their trusted partner, material scientists can focus on what they do best—pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery and advancing our understanding of the materials that shape our world.

Feel free to reach out to our dedicated team to discover how QLIMS can transform your material science laboratory.

In the dynamic realm of laboratory management, where innovation is the name of the game, embracing modern solutions is not just an option—it’s a necessity. Among these groundbreaking innovations, SaaS (Software as a Service) LIMS, which our QLIMS exemplifies, has emerged as a game-changer.

Here are the five reasons why SaaS LIMS is essential for laboratories,

Seamless Accessibility 

With SaaS QLIMS, gain direct access to all laboratory activities, from sample tracking to results analysis, anytime and anywhere. This accessibility breaks down physical barriers, boosting productivity and accelerating decision-making.

Security and Data Integrity

SaaS QLIMS prioritizes data security with features like data encryption and web application firewall. Your sensitive information remains safeguarded, ensuring data integrity and regulatory compliance.

Streamline Laboratory Workflows 

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. Manual processes are replaced with automated efficiency, ensuring smoother lab operations. 

Reduce Reliance on Your Internal IT

Boost your productivity by avoiding wasted time waiting for internal IT resources to set up infrastructure and systems in today’s fast-paced laboratory environment. By utilizing a vendor-managed cloud solution, you eliminate the need to wait for your internal IT. This expedited setup process ensures that you can start reaping the benefits of SaaS QLIMS without unnecessary delays.

Improved Resource Utilization and Streamlined Operations

SaaS QLIMS allows laboratories to enhance resource utilisation, balance workloads more effectively, and streamline operations. This leads to increased efficiency, greater backup and disaster recovery capabilities, fewer audit failures, and consistently tracked key performance indicators (KPIs).

Interested to learn how QLIMS can help your laboratory? Contact us now.

Data has become an invaluable asset for organisations, including laboratory data.  However, accessing laboratory data has been a challenge so far because many LIMS applications rely on outdated technologies and systems. But with the advent of modern data analysis tools like Business Intelligence (BI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), the field of data science has become more accessible. The primary function of QLIMS is to serve as a comprehensive tool to manage all laboratory data, serving as the single source of truth. In this blog article, we will explore QLIMS Business Intelligence which helps organisations to visualise the data and convert it into knowledge. This is the first part of our series on QLIMS BI. Stay tuned for the second part.

Dashboards and Visualisations 

QLIMS offers Business Intelligence dashboards and visualisations that are powered by Kibana, an open-source data visualisation and exploration platform. Kibana is capable of analysing and presenting data in various forms such as charts, graphs, maps, and tables. It will take your laboratory data to the next level in line with our core philosophy of empowering scientists.

No need to include your IT department for extracting data in an understandable format, these in-built tools help you to become the owner of your knowledge.

Also, dashboards can be used to analyse live data and give direct insights into laboratory operations. Enterprise customers can set up their own dashboards and visualisations. A short training will empower you to become more data-driven. 

For more information you can access our QLIMS Business Intelligence brochure and contact our friendly team.