Once upon a time, in the intricate world of genomics…

We’ve been in the market for 30 years. We have many customers from various countries and industries such as environmental, pharmaceuticals, production, and research. But recently, we’ve become a star in genomics. How did it happen? Let us tell you the story.

Yes, we are confident because we have achieved significant momentum in the field of genomics.

Genomic research generates vast amounts of data, which can be overwhelming if not managed properly. Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies have revolutionised genomics by enabling faster and more accurate reading of DNA. This has opened up new avenues for research and insights into the complexities encoded within our genes. The key to success lies in making informed decisions that drive efficiency, automation, and compliance in genomics laboratories. 

So, genomics companies started to research solutions like lab informatics. This is where the indispensable role of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) comes into play.

Firstly, what sets us apart from other LIMS companies? It’s our deep understanding of laboratory challenges because we are a lab-grown company. Our Managing Director, Nick, says, “I started my career as a Research Scientist at St Vincent’s Hospital. This was back in the days when all labs ran on manual, paper systems. It was just ‘the way things were done’. It worked, to an extent, but as technology developed and improved, I wanted to find better ways, systems, and processes to help labs reach their full potential. Just as no two labs are the same, no two information management systems should be.“

Coming from the lab, we understand the challenges. This gives us a big success story with our existing clients and helps us gain new clients too.

After having our first genomics client and understanding their challenges, we provided them with solutions, not just features. Our good reputation in genomics began to grow.

However, the most significant milestone came with AWS. Our turning point began when AWS discovered us, recognising our expertise in LIMS. Despite our confidence in our capabilities, we hadn’t proclaimed our strengths loudly enough. AWS’s recognition certainly helped to build upon the platform we had developed. Our journey with AWS even led us to participate in the prestigious AWS Genomics Community Day in Brisbane and Melbourne. Our network expanded, and it continues to expand.

And now, we have many genomics clients…

But our journey doesn’t stop here. We are continuously innovating and improving our solutions to stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of genomics. Our commitment to understanding and solving the unique challenges faced by genomics labs drives us forward. We are excited about the future and the new possibilities that lie ahead.

Are you ready to join us on this journey? Explore how QLIMS can transform your genomics lab and take your research to the next level. Curious about our capabilities? To download our Genomics Brochure, fill out the form below! Contact us today to open new eras in genomics. 

Data migration can be a daunting task for laboratories looking to transition to a new Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). The process of transferring data from one system to another requires careful planning, execution, and validation to ensure that all data is accurately transferred and accessible in the new system. In this blog post, we will dive into the data migration for LIMS. 

Challenges 

One of the most challenging aspects of data migration is its potential to disrupt laboratory operations. This disruption can occur due to the complexity of the process, the risk of data loss or corruption, and the need to ensure data security and compliance. 

Solution

At OnQ Software, we understand the challenges laboratories face during data migration, which is why we have developed a comprehensive approach to help streamline the process and minimise disruptions to your operations. Our team of experts works closely with you to assess your data migration needs and execute the migration process efficiently.

QLIMS has partnered with qcKen from ZIFO Rnd, a groundbreaking tool designed to meet your needs completely. QLIMS and qcKen are dedicated to making your lab’s digital transition as seamless and painless as possible.

By leveraging qcKen, OnQ Software ensures a smooth and efficient data migration process for its customers. qcKen offers several benefits, including the ability to import, screen, and check large volumes of data, migrate data from handwritten documents, and migrate directly from other LIMS databases.

40 days to 2 days 

Our tool allows you to easily integrate and transfer data from multiple sources, no matter the format or location, ensuring that all your valuable information is included in the migration process. qcKen can import data directly from any source documents such as Certificate of Analysis, Analysis Reports, Product Specifications, Worksheets, General Test Procedures and Standard Operating Procedures.

Analysts can easily examine and correct anomalies as needed by reading documents to create an RPA specification. The service uses machine learning to continually learn and improve conversion accuracy, and once the RPA is analyst-validated, qcKen’s Object Creation Engine takes over and creates objectives in QLIMS. So, our approach to implementation gives analysts an opportunity to focus on performing analysis.

But it’s not just about data transfer, qcKen also guarantees a smooth and fast transition, reducing the disruption to your lab operations. Previous research has demonstrated that qcKen can significantly decrease the duration of migrations from a typical timeframe of 40 days to only 2 days.

With qcKen, you can focus on what really matters: running your lab efficiently and effectively.

If you also would like to learn more about the implementation of a LIMS, you can read our other blog post here. 

If you have any further questions or would like to learn more about QLIMS, please don’t hesitate to contact us. QLIMS goes beyond data migration to provide comprehensive solutions for your laboratory needs, designed by scientists for scientists. 

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!

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!

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.