Scientific research, which mostly relies on modern technology, cannot keep up the pace with the same. The digitalization of laboratories includes ideas for breaking down the barrier between the physical laboratory and its digital counterpart, resulting in a smart laboratory infrastructure in which digital instruments are connected with Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs). Smart technologies come into play as well, which is a concept that an instrument or an entire lab works in digital space, making it easier to communicate with the instrument remotely. Shortly, in near future, digital tools are expected to be introduced to improve productivity. The first step is to eliminate the need to use paper in the lab and make the research process more effective by removing duplicate data re-entry processes. For the time being, more importance will be placed in cloud apps which will improve user confidence.
The tool-to-user interaction becomes even more crucial when it comes to data management methods in science and research, especially for users who are embarking on digitalizing their research process for the first time. Users are frequently frustrated by the fact that they must begin to pay attention to how they plan and gather data, which is critical to the successful digitalization of research.
The following are the goals of laboratories interested in digitalization
- Achieve faster, more reliable, and error-free operations and outcomes
- Provide superior quality results
- Improve data integrity
- Optimize existing workflows
- Increase data security.
Scientific Record Keeping Tips
Good record keeping in Data analysis, authoring papers, creating presentations/posters, and collaboration will make scientific research easier and more reliable. It also allows others to independently replicate scientific observations, which is essential for scientific advancement.
For intellectual property claims, laboratory reports are also necessary. The laboratory notes can also assist you in defending yourself against fraudulent research misconduct allegations. As a result, the laboratory notebook in digital form can serve as a useful record of your activities and mental state while in the lab. To comply with current norms and standards for the conduct of excellent science, most research institutes, colleges, and enterprises demand reliable scientific record-keeping. Please keep in mind that a lab notebook is a record of both physical and mental activities.
The benefits of records saving your notes on the computer (digital notes), and must meet the following requirements:
- Legible
- Timely
- Thorough
- Complete
- Secure
- Backed-up
- Well-organized
- Traceable and available for audits and third-party inspection
If you keep your lab notes in a paper notebook, you’ll need to take a few more steps to meet the above requirements. However, ELN software can help you save time, enhance lab efficiency, and minimize waste by automating some of these time-consuming tasks. For example, A quality software package may automatically back up your notes to the cloud, track changes (version control), and share files and notes with peers.
Conclusion
The digitalization lab entails converting paper-based data into a digital form. This is the first and most crucial step in becoming a fully automated laboratory. Vendors will find it easier to comply with regulations as a result of digital transformation, which will lead to higher-quality pharmaceutical products. We have been witnessing increased scientific innovation on a worldwide scale. To keep up and stay competitive, labs must evaluate the technology investments required to become digitally enabled. We live in a data-driven compliance world, which means scientific laboratories must radically change how they create, manage, and successfully use all of the data generated in their lab ecosystem to meet regulatory compliance obligations. In a world of rapid change, obtaining and maintaining a competitive advantage will necessitate the continuous transformation of lab operations and scientific data management. Logilab ELN is one such lab information software that can be a great addition, be it in regulated laboratories or unregulated Research facilities. Book a demo with us for a detailed walkaround.
