Introduction to Lab Information Management Systems
A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is software that allows you to effectively manage samples and associated data. By using a LIMS, your lab can automate workflows, integrate instruments, and manage samples and associated information. Additionally, you can produce reliable results more quickly and can track data from sequencing runs over time and across experiments to improve efficiency.
Key Benefits of a LIMS
Although the primary purpose of a LIMS is to track and manage samples, it can do so much more. It can:
- Enable workflow automation which can in turn reduce human error
- Centralize access and storage of quality control data
- Support compliance efforts
- Track reagents and lots
- Perform instrument run monitoring
- Initiate downstream data analysis
- Integrate with instruments or other in-lab systems to improve lab efficiency