Human issues and LIMS: the impact on quality

Abstract

Abstract Long, T.J., 1992. Human issues with LIMS: the impact on quality. Chemometrics and Intelligent Laboratory Systems: Laboratory Information Management, 17: 289–294. Many laboratories implement a laboratory information management system (LIMS) to improve laboratory quality. The systems model suggests that by looking at the laboratory as a set of subsystems, laboratory system behavior can be better understood. The human subsystem plays a key role in laboratory performance. Among the important qualities of the human subsystem are individual attitudes toward innovation and motivation. Individuals can be grouped into five categories based upon their attitudes toward innovation. These categories suggest how to assign key responsibilities. Factors which motivate individuals can be used to facilitate implementation of a LIMS. The combining of individual behavior into group behavior suggests a team structure for project performance. Finally, management performs a critical role in guiding and providing a framework for the human subsystem to facilitate LIMS performance.