LIMS products vary from software for small laboratories to systems for enterprise-class distribution, where large implementations can cost millions of dollars and encompass licensing, training, validation and all the other services required.

A quick snapshot of the latest offerings from the major LIMS vendors.

Liquid handling has a pivotal role in a wide range of experimental applications with researchers worldwide depending on a variety of different pipetting methods on a daily basis.

The steadily escalating cost of the drug discovery process means companies are continuously looking for ways to increase process and cost efficiency.

The latest ELNs now support the convergence of instruments, software and R&D workflows in an electronic lab environment.

When it comes to successfully managing a laboratory, the challenge is to think as a business manager and as a scientist at the same time.

Many relatively simple industrial or laboratory processes that require control of flow or pressure can be greatly improved with automation.

Reliably tracking samples as they make their way throughout the scientific process is difficult yet absolutely necessary. Nevertheless, transcription errors, wrong versions of files or other mistakes are all too common and can lead to delayed product rollouts—or may even result in a product never making it to market.

Regardless of what stage your lab is in, planning is essential to the successful application of automation and information technologies.