Considerations in selecting a laboratory information management system for the small laboratory

Abstract

Although there are many laboratory information management systems (LIMS) available, not all of these systems will satisfy the needs of small to mid-size laboratories. These laboratories have different requirements than the larged laboratories. Smaller laboratories must place an emphasis on a LIMS that is easy to use, flexible, inexpensive and expandable. An ideal LIMS is used right from the box without reading manuals or making extensive modifications (Chudzicky, R&D, 31 (1989) 26–27). One LIMS, Sample Master ®, was designed with these requirements in mind. Because of the lack of dedicated information systems personnel, smaller laboratories must select a LIMS that is easy for the laboratory to learn, modify and maintain. These requirements demand a graphical user interface (GUI). The users must be able to answer questions through context sensitive, on-line help while using the LIMS. Small laboratories have broader job requirements than large, well defined organizations so the LIMS must be flexible. This flexibility is accomplished with a relational structured query language (SQL) data base and the ability to import and export data to popular word processors and spreadsheets. Even with all of these sophisticated requirements, the LIMS must be inexpensive. An excellent solution for laboratories is a local area network (LAN) with the LIMS installed on the LAN file server. This allows the laboratory to utilize PCs that have already been purchased for instrument controllers with all of the data in one location. This paper will discuss the benefits of a LAN-based LIMS running under windows on a PC.