Over the next month EAS will be installing and implementing a new LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System). The LIMS will streamline many processes used at EAS. The BTLIMS System is made up of various modules that work together seamlessly.

New LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System)

BTLIMS is a Microsoft Windows®, network-based LIMS designed to enable laboratories to manage complex processes while maintaining compliance with the Good Automated Laboratory Practices (“GALP”, EPA Directive 2185) and all LIMS related national (NELAC, AIHA, etc.) and international (ISO/IEC 17025) quality management systems requirements. With inherent flexibility and scalability, it is easily configured to match the dynamic processes of a variety of laboratory sciences and is able to consolidate diverse business processes into a single, compliant platform within a comprehensive data management system.

The system has the following main modules that together combine to create the complete lab solution.

1. Sample Management
   2. eData Transfer
   3. Document Management
   4. QA/QC
   5. Settings
   6. Inventory and Reagent Management
   7. Customer Service
   8. Sales and Marketing
   9. Communication
   10. Scheduler
   11. Data Explorer

BTLIMS is a truly automated and paperless data management system. Its many features and supplemental tools exemplifies the fact that the user’s needs and convenience is the number one priority for this software.

Different from most commercial LIMS, which usually only handle one type of data system, it is capable of managing different industrial data entry and reporting requirements by integrating them into a single database system.

Features and supplemental tools:
• Sample Check In
• Sample Login
• Worklist
• Result Entry
• e-Entry
• e-Bench Forms
• Report Delivery
• Document Management Module
• Inventory Control Manager
• Reagent Preparation

Sample Check In
The very first step a lab must do when a new sample arrives is log the sample in. Most LIMS do not have a Sample Check In feature and labs resort to logging in samples using a classic bound book. This causes wasted time and extra work. BTLIMS has a Sample Check In tool that allows a sample to be logged into the system immediately. Within seconds of the sample’s arrival, the laboratory is able to begin the necessary preparations and is therefore able to have a quicker turnaround result.

Sample Login
Using only one screen, this module not only provides alternate ways to login samples, but also includes details on the client, samples and the analyses requested. In addition, a consulting form and client history is available for login employees to more efficiently input sample data.

Worklist
All work on BTLIMS’ worklist is automatically updated as projects are completed. Real time assignment is provided for pending work and allows for all of the lab’s assignments to have updated details and be viewable by the lab personnel

Result Entry
Although most LIMS only have one type of data entry format, BTLIMS is able to combine all the data into one single database. BTLIMS is even able to modify itself to the specific needs of a client by separating the data entry modules according to a client’s preference.

e-Entry
BTLIMS’ electronic data transfer has a built in template capable of collecting raw data from instruments with different data formats and automatically transferring them to the result page. The use of an interface allows data to be calculated and evaluated against previously set criteria before the final results are transferred into BTLIMS.

e-Bench Forms
Electronic Bench Forms eliminate the use of paper bench forms to document results. BTLIMS has the capability of generating customized electronic bench forms specific to an analysis. All analytical information can be transferred electronically to the result table of BTLIMS. QC results that are not within specified ranges are immediately identified and a Qualifier Form will automatically open for the user.

Report Delivery
BTLIMS software will automatically fax and email reports in pdf format at the click of a button. Report delivery options can be recorded in the client form to ensure clients receive reports in a timely fashion and in a manner convenient to them.

Document Management Module
Like many of the modules, the Document Management module is unique to BTLIMS in that it manages documents essential to laboratory operations. Documents can be registered, viewed and scheduled for their required update. Records are also color-coded to show the countdown to their annual review, expiration and updating deadlines.

Inventory Control Manager
This matchless application makes inventory control efficient and easy. A multiple level approval process allows employees to make a requisition order, fill out a purchase order and keep track of orders received. This module is so proficient that within a minute an entire inventory request is computed and ordered. The vendor information is all included in this module as well. Because the Inventory Control Manager is so thorough, lab management can easily control and track their inventory spending.

Reagent Preparation
This module is linked to the Inventory Control Manager, which provides all chemicals with an assigned ID number and makes them traceable to vendor lot numbers.