Optimizing lab flow using automation

Consider how optimizing lab flow may look like with lab automation. Consider improvements that increase your laboratory throughput while lowering your overall cost per test by 79%. Consider making the process faster and increasing the number of test results yearly. How much faster and more reliable the process would be if it reduces human mistakes?

Those considerations created the world of optimizing lab flow with automation. It makes a more reliable and profitable process that changes the possibilities and opportunities for laboratories.

All of this is possible with the proper configuration of lab automation. Studies show that automating the lab can get a lower cost per test and a faster turnaround time, a larger number of tests per employee, and reduces human errors.

Laboratory automation has drastically increased laboratory medicine’s efficiency, throughput, and accuracy. Robots and artificial intelligence assess and install total lab automation (TLA) systems to link all elements of the analytical process. Every phase of the laboratory process has an automated solution.

In today’s fast-paced business environment, efficiency is vital to staying competitive. It is especially true in the laboratory industry, where optimizing lab flow is essential for maintaining high-quality results and meeting project deadlines. Automation has become a game-changer, offering streamlined processes that significantly improve productivity and reduce errors.

Optimizing lab flow benefits:

Optimizing lab flow using automation can result in numerous benefits for laboratory managers, staff, and clients. These include:

• Faster turnaround times
• Increased throughput
• Improved accuracy and precision
• Reduced variability and errors
• Greater cost-effectiveness
• Enhanced data quality and integrity

Here’s how automation can optimize lab flow, from sample processing to diagnostic:

Sample Preparation

Sample preparation is crucial in any laboratory workflow but can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Automation tools such as liquid handling systems, robotic arms, and plate readers can help speed up the process while reducing errors and variability. These systems can also handle large volumes of samples, allowing for faster turnaround times.

Lab flow optimization includes automation of sample preparation through specialized systems designed for tasks like sample dispensing, mixing, and dilution. These systems can handle various sample types, including liquids, solids, and gases, and perform operations like centrifugation, filtration, and extraction.

Integrated with analytical instruments such as mass spectrometers and chromatography systems, automated sample preparation systems facilitate seamless sample analysis without manual intervention. Barcoding and tracking systems streamline the process by allowing easy sample identification and tracking throughout the workflow.

Instrumentation:

Automated instrumentation can also optimize lab flow by reducing manual tasks and improving precision. Many different types of lab automation instrumentation are available, ranging from basic devices to complex systems.

Example of a complex system: mass spectrometers 

They can provide information on the molecular weight, structure, and composition of substances and improve drug discovery, proteomics, and environmental analysis processes.

Example of a basic system: automated pipetting 

They are systems that use precision pumps and dispensers to deliver accurate volumes of liquid to multiple containers. Automated pipetting systems have a variety of applications, such as DNA sequencing, PCR, and cell-based assays.

The most crucial aspect is freeing up staff time for other tasks with the role of plate readers, shakers, centrifuges, etc

Inventory management:

Lab automation can optimize lab flow by streamlining inventory management. An automated inventory management system can help reduce errors and waste while improving efficiency. 

Such systems can use barcode scanners or radiofrequency identification (RFID) to track and manage inventory, allowing for real-time monitoring of stock levels, expiration dates, and usage patterns. 

Automated inventory tracking systems use barcodes or RFID technology to track the movement of lab supplies and equipment. Lab staff can quickly and accurately identify the location and quantity of items in stock by scanning barcodes or tags.

Automated dispensing systems dispense precise quantities of reagents, solvents, or other liquids directly from bulk containers into smaller vessels, such as test tubes or vials. This can improve accuracy, minimize contamination, and reduce waste. Also, dispensing systems can be used to conduct parallel tests in order to get the complete set of results faster.

By automating inventory management, labs can save time and reduce the risk of stockouts or overstocking. This leads to cost savings and improved productivity.

The right lab flow optimization partner

Collaborating with an experienced partner with expertise in optimizing lab flow who can identify and manage risks consistently is essential. Berg Software’s experience with numerous projects in lab automation has brought valuable insights and knowledge, making us a reliable partner for clinical automation solution providers to implement custom automation software.

Berg’s experience with integrating software for a laboratory’s needs and managing risk in such an environment is extensive. Working with well-known clients from the biomedical industry, we developed an advanced clinical automation module for a biomedical lab. We created a flexible, adjustable, and simple platform to maintain to meet our client’s unique needs. 

Lab flow optimization creates opportunities to improve efficiency, cost savings, and higher-quality data. By partnering with a trusted automation expert like Berg Software, labs can benefit from cutting-edge technology, streamlined processes, and expert guidance throughout the automation journey.