Laboratory Information Management Archives - INTERACTIVE SOFTWARE

From Spreadsheets to LIMS: Building Integrated Laboratory Systems for the Future

Sharon Williams — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:02:07 +0000

Walk into a lab in the 1970s and, at first glance, it wouldn’t feel entirely unfamiliar. There would be microscopes lined along the benches, glass pipettes drying in racks, centrifuges rattling away in the corner and scientists carefully recording observations in notebooks that had almost certainly survived several chemical spills. Visit a laboratory today and it’s a different world. Instruments generate millions of data points before you’ve had chance to finish your morning coffee. Genome sequencing that once took years now happens in days. Liquid handling robots quietly work through repetitive tasks with extraordinary precision, while artificial intelligence is beginning to uncover patterns that might have taken researchers weeks, or even months, to spot. Science has advanced at a remarkable pace. However, the way many laboratories manage their information hasn’t always kept up. Despite advances in instrumentation and automation, many organisations still struggle to create truly integrated laboratory systems that connect data, workflows and people. Scratch beneath the surface and you will often uncover a fascinating ecosystem of spreadsheets, handwritten notebooks, shared network drives, emails, printed worksheets and the occasional laminated instruction sheet that nobody remembers creating but nobody dares throw away. Every laboratory seems to have developed its own […]

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Boost soil testing lab efficiency: The business case for a LIMS

Sharon Williams — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 13:57:51 +0000

Soil testing laboratories play a vital role in construction, infrastructure, environmental and agricultural projects. Whether assessing the suitability of land for development, determining earthworks specifications or evaluating ground conditions for major infrastructure schemes, accurate testing data is essential for informed decision-making. However, today’s soil testing laboratories are under increasing pressure to process growing volumes of samples, deliver results within demanding project timescales and meet stringent quality and compliance requirements. At the same time, they must maintain complete traceability across every stage of the testing process, often without significant increases in resources or staffing. Managing hundreds or even thousands of soil, rock and aggregate samples across multiple projects presents significant operational challenges. Samples often move through numerous stages, from receipt and logging through to preparation, testing, validation and reporting. Without effective systems in place, maintaining visibility and control becomes increasingly difficult. A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) can help soil testing laboratories manage this complexity by providing a central platform for sample tracking, workflow management, quality control and reporting. Managing complex soil testing workflows Soil testing laboratories often handle a wide variety of sample types and testing methodologies. A single project may involve classification testing, moisture content analysis, particle size distribution, […]

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Achiever LIMS 5.8: Extending laboratory automation

Sharon Williams — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 13:37:58 +0000

Digital transformation is no longer just about replacing paper-based processes. Today’s organisations need systems that work together seamlessly, allowing data, workflows and decisions to move securely across applications, departments and partners. With the launch of Achiever 5.8, we are taking another step towards helping organisations create truly connected digital ecosystems. Building on Achiever’s existing low-code process automation capabilities, the new API framework allows organisations to extend workflows beyond the boundaries of Achiever itself, connecting laboratory instruments, enterprise applications, healthcare systems, finance platforms and more. Why integration matters Most organisations rely on multiple systems to run their operations. Whether it’s a LIMS, CRM, ERP, finance platform, HR system, electronic lab notebook or clinical application, valuable information is often spread across different technologies. When systems cannot communicate effectively, teams are forced to manually transfer information between applications. This creates delays, increases the risk of errors and makes it harder to maintain visibility and compliance. Modern organisations require real-time access to information, automated business processes, and connected workflows that span departments, systems and locations. At the same time, they must ensure data is exchanged securely, governed appropriately and fully traceable for compliance and operational oversight. Integration is essential for organisations looking to improve […]

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10 Essential Tips for LIMS Implementation Success

Sharon Williams — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 09:33:57 +0000

Implementing a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is one of the most transformative steps a lab can take. Whether you are moving away from spreadsheets or replacing an outdated system, the process can feel overwhelming. But with the right preparation and a clear strategy, your lab can transition smoothly to a modern, more efficient, fully compliant workflow. Below are ten essential tips to help guide your lab through a successful LIMS implementation, from early planning to long‑term optimisation. 1. Define clear objectives from the start Before any configuration begins, take time to articulate exactly what you want your LIMS to achieve. Many labs aim to reduce manual data entry and administrative load, improve sample traceability, or strengthen audit readiness. Others want to eliminate bottlenecks, improve turnaround times, or gain better visibility of workloads. Whatever your priorities, defining them early ensures the system is designed around your real needs rather than generic assumptions. Clear objectives also help keep the project focused and aligned across teams. 2. Map existing workflows A LIMS should support the way your lab operates not force you to change processes unnecessarily. Spend time documenting how samples move through your lab today, from receipt to reporting. Identify where […]

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Why a LIMS is the backbone of growing laboratories

Sharon Williams — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 14:31:27 +0000

Scaling with confidence: How a LIMS enables laboratory growth In today’s laboratory environments, growth is rarely linear. Whether driven by increasing sample volumes, expanding research pipelines, or stricter regulatory demands, laboratories must constantly evolve. Yet many find themselves constrained not by scientific capability, but by systems that simply cannot keep up. This is where a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) becomes an essential tool both in day-to-day use and for future scaling of laboratory operations. The scalability challenge in modern laboratories Many laboratories begin with tools that are quick to implement, spreadsheets, standalone systems, and manual processes. While these may work in the early stages, they often create hidden inefficiencies that become increasingly problematic as operations expand. As sample volumes rise and workflows become more complex, laboratories frequently encounter: Fragmented data across multiple systems. Increased risk of manual errors. Limited traceability and audit readiness. Difficulty scaling workflows or introducing new processes. Reduced visibility across teams and projects. At a certain point, these limitations stop being manageable workarounds and start becoming barriers to growth. What does a scalable LIMS really mean? A scalable LIMS is not just about managing more data; it’s about enabling a laboratory to grow without friction. It […]

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Interactive Software: Your lab deserves more than spreadsheets and wishful thinking

Sharon Williams — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:33:50 +0000

If you’ve ever tried to wrangle spreadsheets, sticky notes, and that one mysterious Excel file called ‘FINAL_v7_ACTUAL_FINAL.xlsx’ into something resembling a laboratory information management system… this one’s for you. Let’s talk about LIMS. Specifically, choosing the right LIMS and implementation partner — because getting the software right is important, but getting the team behind it right is what truly makes the difference. First things first: LIMS isn’t just software A LIMS should make your life easier. Not ‘slightly less chaotic’, not ‘marginally improved’, but genuinely better. Faster workflows, cleaner data, fewer headaches, and ideally… fewer existential crises before your morning coffee. That’s where the team at Interactive Software quietly (and very competently) step in. We actually understand labs (really, we do) You know that moment when a software provider is nodding along but it’s clear they don’t really understand how specific and uniquely integrated your sample tracking process actually is? We don’t do that. Our team is built on real-world experience in laboratory systems and data management. Which means fewer awkward explanations, fewer mismatched solutions, and far less ‘No…that’s not quite it’ moments. Big enough to deliver. Small enough to care. Some companies are so big you need a support […]

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Unlock hidden savings: Making the ROI case for your lab’s LIMS investment

Sharon Williams — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 11:29:14 +0000

Let’s be honest, laboratory teams are brilliant at solving complex scientific problems. But when it comes to managing samples, data, and workflows, many labs are still juggling spreadsheets, paper notes, and systems that don’t quite speak to each other. And while that patchwork approach might feel manageable day to day, it can quietly chip away at productivity, accuracy, and ultimately the bottom line. Manual data entry: A small task with a big impact Most laboratories eventually hit a tipping point where spreadsheets multiply and processes become harder to manage. Suddenly the conversation turns to whether it’s time for something smarter and they begin exploring the LIMS ROI business case to understand whether the investment will pay off. The truth is, the ROI of a LIMS often shows up in places labs don’t initially expect, hidden in everyday inefficient processes that have simply become part of the routine. Take manual data entry. On its own, it doesn’t seem like a major issue. But multiply it across dozens of samples, multiple technicians, and repeated checks to make sure nothing has been missed. Suddenly hours disappear each week. The same goes for tracking samples across spreadsheets, chasing down missing or inconsistent data, preparing […]

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See you at London Lab Live 2026

Sharon Williams — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 10:04:48 +0000

Achiever LIMS will be at London Lab Live 2026 Join us at London Lab Live 6th – 7th May 2026, ExCeL, London on stand E30 and discover how Achiever LIMS is helping shape the lab of the future London Lab Live is one of the UK’s leading events for the laboratory community, bringing together scientists, lab managers, innovators and technology providers to explore the future of laboratory science. With thousands of attendees and hundreds of exhibitors, it’s the perfect place to see the latest technologies transforming laboratory workflows. If you’re attending, come and meet the Interactive Software team. We will be demonstrating Achiever LIMS, our powerful Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) designed to help laboratories streamline operations, manage complex data and maintain complete traceability. Whether you’re exploring digital transformation or looking to modernise your existing systems, London Lab Live is an opportunity to see how LIMS technology can support your laboratory’s next stage of growth. Why laboratories are turning to LIMS Laboratories today face growing operational challenges. Data volumes continue to increase, compliance standards are becoming stricter, and organisations are under pressure to deliver faster results while maintaining accuracy and quality. Many laboratories still rely on spreadsheets, paper-based records or […]

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Integrated Digital Lab Webinar: Modern LIMS for Data, Workflow and Compliance

Sharon Williams — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:04:23 +0000

Modern laboratories are under pressure to operate efficiently, maintain compliance, and manage growing volumes of data. This webinar explains how a modern LIMS provides the foundation for an integrated digital laboratory. Webinar: Thursday 23rd April 2026| 11:00 am (BST) Free to attend: Presented by Paul Ward, Technical Consultant, Interactive Software Laboratories today operate within increasingly complex digital environments. They must work faster, collaborate securely, meet evolving regulatory expectations and deliver accurate, fully traceable results, all while managing growing volumes of data, connected instruments and diverse stakeholders. Meeting these demands requires more than incremental system improvements. It requires an integrated digital lab: a secure, unified and intelligently connected environment where data, people and processes function cohesively. Join us on Thursday 23rd April at 11:00 am (BST) for a free webinar where we explore how a modern LIMS provides the digital foundation for building this integrated future. Why integration matters for modern laboratories Many laboratories still rely on fragmented systems, manual data handling and disconnected workflows. These silos introduce risk, reduce visibility and increase operational overhead. An integrated digital lab centralises core laboratory operations within a secure, governed platform enabling: Real-time data visibility. Controlled collaboration across teams. Reduced manual intervention. Stronger compliance […]

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Achiever 5.8 API Preview: Unlocking Next Level Connectivity and Digital Workflow Automation

Sharon Williams — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 11:29:26 +0000

Modernising integrations with the Achiever 5.8 API Thursday 26th March 2026 | 2:00 pm (GMT) Presented by Paul Ward, Technical Consultant, Interactive Software Join us on Thursday 26th March at 2:00 pm (GMT) for an exclusive customer-only webinar where we will showcase the Achiever 5.8 API Preview, the next step in enabling connected digital operations across your organisation. This upcoming release marks a significant step forward in how Achiever connects with other systems. The new API framework introduces a modern, scalable architecture designed to support faster, more secure and more flexible integrations across a laboratory’s digital environment. During the webinar, Paul Ward, Technical Consultant at Interactive Software, will explore the expanded reach of the Achiever 5.8 API, what the updates mean for your automation pipelines, how the new APIs strengthen interoperability with instruments, applications and enterprise systems, and the role of auditability in maintaining secure, governed digital workflows. Who should attend the webinar? This webinar will be particularly relevant if your organisation: Already uses Achiever for workflows, compliance or laboratory processes. Is planning to automate data flows between Achiever and other systems. Needs reliable connectivity between instruments, applications and analysis tools. Wants to reduce manual work and increase process transparency. […]

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