With growing standards of patient care, clinical testing laboratory across the world are forced to change the way they manage their laboratory operations. More focus is now given to automation as an automated laboratory reduces the risk of human error and allows laboratory personnel to concentrate on their core laboratory jobs, thereby saving time and money. Automation of laboratory also helps in end-to-end sample and workflow management, assuring traceability of results and maintaining data integrity by following standard laboratory practices.  

Automating the clinical data management and testing workflows using the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) play a significant role in ensuring faster turnaround time, efficiency, and productivity. Implementation of a LIMS helps laboratories to create a streamlined workflow for following SOPs such as ordering tests, testing procedures, conducting studies etc. to achieve quality clinical outcomes. It enhances the quality and reliability of results. A LIMS can help in full traceability, integrated quality control, and automated results upload from instruments, eliminating transcription errors. Besides, a LIMS following HIPAA, 21 CFR part 11 regulations and GLPs facilitates masking of sensitive personal information based on the role of the user in the organization. It helps to configure electronic signatures for accessing and approving laboratory activities and also maintains an audit trail along with a date and time stamp. 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Understanding the significance of laboratory automation and information management in following SOPs and meeting regulatory compliance.
2. The role of LIMS in improving clinical testing workflows to achieve faster turnaround time, efficiency, and optimal use of resources.