Blog
We love sharing ideas, news and any handy hints!
So whether it’s the latest technology or industry news, product updates, advice or ‘gotchas’ you’ll find it here in our blogs. As well as some real-world stories from our 28+ years of creating and implementing software.
Our blogs and insights are our own opinions.
Catch up with our latest LIMS, Biobanking & CRM blogs
Feb
18
There is a lot of hype about Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the moment – from its potential benefits to the risks it poses in some areas. AI is already being used across multiple sectors, including diagnostics and healthcare, to analyse images and data, identifying patterns across large datasets. This helps... read more →
Jan
27
In today’s fast-evolving laboratory landscape, no two labs are identical. Each has its unique goals, methods, data requirements, technologies, and outputs. How your lab operates plays a critical role in delivering accurate results, maintaining efficiency, and ensuring quality and compliance. This is where workflows and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) integrated... read more →
Jan
27
We are pleased to announce our membership of GAMBICA, the UK’s trade association for instrumentation, control, automation, and laboratory technology industries. This affiliation reflects our ongoing commitment to driving software-based innovations and leading the way in the development of user-focused, intuitive Laboratory Information Management Systems. GAMBICA provides a platform for... read more →
Jan
27
Interactive Software is proud to bring its flagship solution, Achiever LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System), to the GAMBICA community. As new members of the UK’s premier trade association for laboratory technology, we are excited to offer GAMBICA members the opportunity to leverage Achiever LIMS to streamline their laboratory operations, enhance... read more →
Dec
04
In today’s fast-paced laboratory environments, efficiency, compliance, and data integrity are paramount. Achiever LIMS 5.7, the latest iteration of Interactive Software’s Laboratory Information Management System, is designed to meet these demands with advanced tools and features. Achiever LIMS is designed to enhance laboratory operations across various sectors, including clinical research,... read more →
Oct
29
In an era where data breaches and cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated, organisations must prioritise cybersecurity across all departments. One often-overlooked ally in this endeavour is the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). IT professionals can leverage a robust LIMS to bolster their cybersecurity strategies, ensuring that sensitive data is protected,... read more →
Oct
29
In today’s digital landscape, protecting sensitive data—especially in laboratories handling valuable samples—is paramount. This responsibility goes beyond practical implications; there are significant ethical considerations and financial motivations for safeguarding laboratory data and systems, whether in clinical, food, agricultural, or environmental contexts. Fundamentally, cybersecurity is about defending digital systems, networks, programs,... read more →
Jul
20
In laboratories time is of the essence. Faster turnaround and processing times help optimise vital resources as well as preserve sample integrity. Digitally connecting your rack scanner with your laboratory information management system (LIMS) accelerates your sample receipt, analysis, and dispatch processes. Instead of expending valuable resources manually transcribing data... read more →
May
15
Laboratories, large and small, increasingly rely on technology and digital solutions, such as Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), to manage their lab processes and data efficiently, and securely. By connecting and automating processes, data, instruments and systems, a LIMS promotes improvements in data quality, integrity, compliance, and productivity across your... read more →
Sep
07
We are delighted to be hosting a live webinar on the 20th October from 2.30 - 3.30pm for Laboratory and Biobank Managers and professionals who would like to understand more about using LIMS to support MHRA and... read more →
Aug
16
Modern working practises, coupled with the ongoing threat of cyber-attacks and the increased pressure placed on laboratory professionals and biobank mangers to comply with industry regulations such as the Human Tissue Act (HTA) and MHRA have placed the onus of responsibility on LIMS software developers to ensure their systems provide... read more →
Nov
16
Consumables are essential to the operation of modern laboratories. Consumable quality or absence can cause risk, delays and inefficiencies that can impact outcomes as well as reputation. This is especially significant for those carrying out time-critical processes in forensic, testing and research labs. Using a laboratory information management system (LIMS)... read more →
Oct
28
In the laboratory the term 'workflow' defines the steps and processes scientists follow when carrying out tasks. Often taking the form of standard operating procedures (SOPs) lab workflows are designed to instil consistency and standardisation as well as encourage best practice. Workflows can be configured in modern laboratory information management... read more →
Aug
19
So, you're looking for a new Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Maybe your Excel-based systems are creaking or you’ve recently had an external audit and the auditors strongly recommended that you need a new system. Or maybe you’ve received some new funding due to an expansion in your lab’s workload.... read more →
Jul
13
Many of us are familiar with the term digital transformation or digitisation. But how many organisations that are looking at digitalising the lab are actually putting the needs of the scientists and researchers at the heart of their digital transformation strategy? After all, without their buy-in and adoption any new... read more →
Jul
13
No way to search using the information you have available? Constrained by search logic or unsure what the logic is? Have to search again to find related records? Not only are the above annoying and time consuming, but risk duplication with the wrong records being updated, misreporting, loss of data... read more →
Jul
13
With biobanks, their raison d'être is to help researchers to make scientific breakthroughs using their tissue samples and the associated data. The value of the tissue samples to researchers, however, depends entirely on their profile, condition and the supporting evidence. In other words, the data. And lots of that data... read more →
Jul
05
Software configuration and customisation often conjures up images of IT teams diligently working away on some complicated piece of code. When it comes to choosing a Laboratory information management system (LIMS) most organisations list ‘configurable’ as a requirement. Being able to adapt a LIMS as your needs evolve will help... read more →
Jun
24
With increasing volumes of data being held about each of us it’s no wonder the analogy ‘data is the new oil’ has become popular. Organisations are constantly trying to harness information about our hobbies, interests and purchasing history to entice us to buy their latest products and gadgets. They probably... read more →
Jun
07
Each sample’s journey is a complex one. As a sample moves from initial collection to depletion it passes through the hands of numerous people. Even the simplest journey involves two people where a clinic nurse takes a sample and then a scientist processes it. But it's usually not quite that... read more →
May
24
Growing pressure is being placed on labs to increase sample throughput, deliver rapid, accurate results, and adhere to tighter quality control and regulatory compliance measures. You might be thinking about how you can boost productivity in your lab in order to meet demand and scale-up your lab operations. You could... read more →
May
13
Sample testing capacity within the UK has increased significantly, and unbelievably rapidly, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Time and accuracy are of the essence when it comes to tracking and tracing COVID-19 samples, donors, and potential contacts. With growing volumes of samples and an ever-changing landscape as countries... read more →
Apr
29
‘And when she got there the cupboard was bare!’* A line from a children’s nursery rhyme that may sound very familiar when it comes to looking for samples in your lab. Your spreadsheet or hand drawn diagram tells you that the sample you want is in Freezer A. When you... read more →
Apr
23
Text data that needs to be matched with pre-defined data sets is often seen as most challenging. But what about innocuous date and time fields – surely they can’t be difficult? Oh yes they can! Here are four tips to avoid many potholes and maintain data accuracy. Tip 1 –... read more →
Apr
12
The purpose of authentication is to confirm that a user is who they say they are. The authentication example most of us are familiar with is when signing-in to a website using a username and password. The username part of this combination is who the user claims to be. While... read more →
Mar
22
Implementing a SaaS LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) is not as simple as ‘pay your money and off you go’. Although you don’t need to plan for the system’s installation and ongoing maintenance there’s still plenty of preparation to do. Firstly, you need to understand how the system works as... read more →
Mar
18
You have a data set and you know what your target LIMS system can import. So, how do you turn one into the other? It can be a real challenge to manipulate data files and half the problem is understanding the assumptions and implicit rules in the original. We briefly... read more →
Mar
11
When considering a new Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) it's important to think about how you will implement the system as well as making sure it meets your requirements. When pulling together your project team don't forget to include someone who will oversee the project - your Project Manager. The... read more →
Feb
23
How can I deliver training with interactive examples, effectively via a ‘live online’ format? It may seem daunting but being aware of the specific challenges this can present, and making some basic changes, you can make it work. Be aware: There will be more technical/IT challenges, especially if delegates are... read more →
Feb
19
Imagine you need to import a data set into your Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Perhaps you’re taking on a new study and need the historic data or are merging labs with another team. Whatever the cause the result is the same. You’ve got a spreadsheet of data of unknown... read more →
Feb
03
You might think that choosing and implementing a Software as a Service (SaaS) deployed Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is a lot easier and quicker than a traditional on-premise solution. After all, one of the main reasons for choosing a SaaS system is that you can use the software without... read more →
Jan
28
Whose job description includes “ensure that the data you use and record is of maximum quality”? Not many. However, it’s an absolute requirement of pretty much anybody in the modern workplace. Data is king. Good data can inform business decisions that bring immense success. But, equally, bad data can cripple... read more →
Jan
15
If you’re currently using spreadsheets, an in-house built system or legacy database to manage your samples, you may be considering investing in a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). You may be put off implementing a LIMS because it can take months, if not years, to implement. Often at great expense.... read more →
Dec
09
I was watching an excellent presentation by Prof Daniel Catchpool, the current president of ISBER, at the Europe Biobank Week 2020, and he raised this specific question in a very insightful way. Anyone who manages a biobank has a multitude of constant considerations to juggle. These can relate to consent... read more →
Nov
20
Each sample’s journey is a complex one. A sample may be handled by many people as it moves from initial collection through various states and stages to final depletion. It may travel hundreds of miles. You may freeze and thaw it a couple of times. What’s more, you may split,... read more →
Oct
06
Everyone loves a spreadsheet. It's easy to add data in to as well as update. In fact, they work acceptably well – up to a point. But when they do fail the impact can be catastrophic with data being truncated, inaccurate or not even being saved. What's worse is that... read more →
Oct
01
Many laboratories invest in and use state of the art equipment to process and analyse samples. These highly sophisticated pieces of kit can efficiently handle large volumes of samples. They can complete very intricate – as well as repetitive - processes, saving you valuable time. Plus, their accuracy can help... read more →
Sep
24
With the virus increasing amongst young people, Universities are focusing on what additional measures they need to put in place to safeguard the health and well-being of staff and students returning to campuses and halls of residence. Many Universities with in-house lab facilities are considering, and even starting to conduct,... read more →
Sep
08
Turn your data into insight quickly and easily with Achiever Medical LIMS analytics and data visualisation Most laboratory information management systems (LIMS) give you some method for querying your data. Some advanced solutions provide data visualisation tools so you can display your data using graphics and gauges. While others simply... read more →
Sep
03
Data - you can’t work with it and you definitely can’t work without it. Today’s labs generate large volumes of data. You can spend hours entering information and even longer trying to find and decipher it. Working with data is seen by many as a necessary evil – something that’s... read more →
Aug
20
Many people start looking for a solution after they’ve just encountered a problem. And it’s the same with a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Often the question ‘Do we need a LIMS?’ comes as a result of something chaotic or unfortunate happening in the lab. It might be because of a... read more →
Aug
13
Imagine being able to open your web-browser, navigate to a designated URL, sign-in and start working with your samples. No more wading through multiple spreadsheets or waiting for applications to load on your desktop. A web-based Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is accessible anytime and anywhere. It’s easier to deploy... read more →
Aug
03
A laboratory information management system (LIMS) can play an essential role in your lab. One that goes beyond sample and lab data management. A LIMS can streamline and optimise your laboratory processes, leading to improvements in productivity, quality and efficiency. What's more, it also helps you meet regulatory compliance. So,... read more →
Jul
17
Being able to evidence where your samples have come from, what’s happened to them and where they are now is important for regulatory compliance. But that’s not the only reason why you should be auditing your lab data. Being able to see when a sample record was created and who... read more →
Jul
07
When you’re working with limited resources and budgets it can be difficult to justify buying anything new - let alone an expensive LIMS. Let’s take a new piece of equipment for example. First you have to find what you need then see it in action, chat to reference sites, negotiate... read more →
Jul
02
The role of technology and how it’s supporting us throughout this pandemic has often been highlighted. We've had to get used to the ‘new norm’ of conducting our meetings on Zoom, Microsoft Teams and the other remote conference systems. The endless array of backgrounds gives you a tiny glimpse into... read more →
Jun
25
The world as we know it is changing - significantly. None more so than our world of work. Things have definitely changed in the lab whether you’re involved directly with the testing and research efforts for COVID-19 or not. You’ve probably introduced new procedures in line with the updated guidelines... read more →
Jun
18
No matter how large or small, no funder has unlimited finances. All funders have specific aims that they want to target to the best of their ability using their limited funds. This is true for large government funding bodies but especially true for small charities. You need to be fully... read more →
Jun
08
For the foreseeable future University Open Days are a no go. Thousands of prospective students gathering on campus to view facilities and attend subject talks is a social distancing nightmare. As a result, you’re having to come up with exciting, cutting-edge ways to deliver your University Open Days virtually. And... read more →
Jun
02
Your lab generates a lot of data every day. You spend many hours carefully recording detailed information about your samples, donors and storage. Many labs only use data in its raw format and run basic queries like ‘how many samples of type x do we have?’. If you're using a laboratory... read more →
May
25
Many labs and Biobanks choose to implement a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to help them meet regulatory compliance. When you’re frantically preparing for the auditor's visit it's difficult to remember that the purpose of regulation and compliance is to ensure quality and safety. When using spreadsheets to track your... read more →
May
18
In the current COVID-19 pandemic more people than ever are aware of the critical role clinical trials play in finding treatments and cures to disease. Tens of thousands of generous volunteers have signed up to take part in the various global COVID-19 trials. While the rest of us wait patiently... read more →
May
13
If you’re one of the many labs or Biobanks whose operations have been temporarily halted or repurposed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, then you may be wondering how you’re going to get going again. ‘Normality’, whatever that means, will soon kick back in. And those notorious, life-threatening diseases... read more →
May
11
As a Biobank having high quality samples is essential for your reputation and success. You've probably defined protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) that you follow when storing and processing samples. Likewise, you may use spreadsheets or dedicated systems to make sure your sample data is as complete and accurate... read more →
Apr
29
For many labs and Biobanks, the main reason for implementing a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) is to improve the way they manage their samples. If you’re using your samples in research, you need to have confidence in the accuracy of your data. Similarly, you want to have confidence in... read more →
Apr
27
Choosing to implement a laboratory information management system (LIMS) is a considered purchase. Although there are affordable options available for labs of all sizes such as those offered by cloud and hosted LIMS solutions, they still involve you investing your time and money. Firstly, you have to find the right... read more →
Apr
23
The fundamental role of Biobanks is to provide quality biological samples to help further research. Ultimately helping shape new vaccines and cures for diseases. Your Biobank might include historical samples as well as current ones. As a disease-specific Biobank the profile data you hold about your participants is as important... read more →
Apr
20
A modern laboratory information management system (LIMS) helps you remove data silos in your Biobank and lab. Consolidating your data into one centralised system. As a result, you can reduce administrative overheads, improve quality, increase efficiency and protect sensitive information. When it comes to working with a spreadsheet a common... read more →
Apr
14
Efficient and standardised business processes are fundamental to the effective running of a lab or biobank. That's why it's so important to have clearly documented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Hopefully your SOPs closely match your business requirements and everything's nice and rosy. But what if they don't? Or if your... read more →
Apr
13
In a clinical research lab or Biobank, it’s vital you know exactly what biological samples you’re working with and where they came from. Understanding a tissue sample’s provenance helps you assess how you can best use it. And, critically, if it’s safe to use. If this information includes patient consent,... read more →
Apr
06
In this unprecedented and somewhat unsettling time, we're seeing collaboration on a global scale like never before. On a human level, strangers are coming together to help each other through the health crisis. In business, instead of competing separately to find a cure companies are working together to target COVID-19.... read more →
Apr
02
Your job is hard enough without your software making it harder. It shouldn’t take you longer to carry out data entry than it does to do your day job. The right Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) or Biobanking software in your lab should be seen as an extension to your... read more →
Mar
30
As I write this article the UK is in lockdown in attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19. Never in my lifetime did I think I would see something so momentous. I feel like I’m living through history. What I took for granted just over a week ago, like going... read more →
Mar
26
Historically scientific software has been difficult to navigate and use. Biobanking software and Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) are no exception. There seems to have been a common misconception that any software handling complex lab processes must also be complicated. For many years researchers and lab managers have struggled to... read more →
Mar
23
Legislation in any well-functioning industry evolves over time. Life sciences and clinical research are no exception. Becoming aware of those changes in good time to meet regulatory compliance is your first issue. However, regulatory bodies such as the Human Tissue Authority (HTA) issue advanced notifications about proposed changes to the... read more →
Mar
20
Interactive Software Limited (ISL): COVID-19 Update and Business Continuity Plan Dear Customers and Partners Following Government advice issued around COVID-19, we are now adopting a full work from home policy for all members of the team. Whilst this has been previously available as an option, it is now mandatory for... read more →
Mar
18
When people donate their tissue, they are making an important contribution to research. Research that’s developing treatments for patients for future generations. One estimate gives the percentage of donated samples actually being used for research at only 15%1. Far too many are stored and never used. Instead, they are destroyed... read more →
Mar
13
One of the main reasons labs, Biobanks and biorepositories purchase a lab information management system (LIMS) is to improve data integrity and quality. Data management is a critical function of a LIMS. And crucially how you manage your data has a bearing on how, and if, you are able to... read more →
Mar
10
When it comes to configurable Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), Biobank Information Management System (BIMS) and Sample Tracking Software - "It Ain’t What You Do, It’s The Way That You Do It"… And as the old song continues, “…that’s what gets results”. Well, with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and... read more →
Mar
04
The difficulty of sourcing samples from the NHS is a common cry. With demands remaining unfulfilled locally and a reported 75% of samples being sourced from overseas[1]. In contrast, recent reports also highlight that only a small percentage of samples donated in the UK are actually used in research[2]. On... read more →
Feb
24
Data quality is absolutely critical to a successful Higher Education Customer Relationship Management (CRM) implementation. It can literally make or break an implementation. On-going success is reinforced by clean and complete data. It also allows you to measure your Return on Investment (ROI) accurately, proving your success. Conversely, poor data... read more →
Feb
17
A bonus article as an addition to our 'Choosing a LIMS' series to help keep your chosen system up-to-date. In a recent survey an amazing thirty NHS Trusts stated that they either do not have a LIMS User Requirements Specification (URS) or that it hasn’t been reviewed since its last... read more →
Feb
17
Our ‘Choosing a LIMS’ series has come to an end. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for reading our blogs on this topic. And we hope that we’ve helped get rid of some of the mystery that often surrounds the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) selection... read more →
Feb
14
Achiever Medical LIMS proud award winners of prestigious West Midlands Medilink Healthcare and Business ‘Innovation’ award 2019 We’re absolutely thrilled to announce that our Achiever Medical laboratory information management system (LIMS) has been awarded Medilink’s West Midlands Medical and Healthcare Business ‘Innovation’ Award 2019. Congratulations to all finalists and a... read more →
Feb
13
Welcome to the third part in our ‘Choosing a Higher Education CRM system’ series. We’re going to be discussing ways in which you can protect your data. In recent weeks there have been several data security breaches in UK Universities. Within your Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system, you’re recording –... read more →
Feb
10
We are pleased to announce that last year we successfully gained our Cyber Essentials certification. This is part of our commitment to cyber security and quality across our company and our LIMS and CRM products. Cyber Essentials is a scheme that the UK-government supports to help organisations protect themselves, whatever... read more →
Feb
07
Feb
04
Welcome to the final part in our ‘Choosing a LIMS’ series. It’s important before you start building anything that you have a solid foundation. When it comes to Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) that foundation is the technology or platform on which the software sits. This will impact what you... read more →
Jan
28
At some point when considering implementing a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) your thoughts may turn to your data. You might be new to LIMS or extending an existing system to encompass another team or stream of work. Either way, the data you’ll need isn’t in there yet, but you’ve... read more →
Jan
21
Welcome to part five of our 'Choosing a LIMS' series. As the famous quote from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet goes, ‘A rose by any other name would smell as sweet’. Could you say the same for Laboratory Information Management Systems and Sample Management Software? Or Biobanking and Biobank software? Or... read more →
Jan
20
Have you noticed how many Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and Biobank Information Management Systems (BIMS) are migrating to the cloud? Are cloud-based LIMS or BIMS just a fad or are there some advantages and tangible benefits to it? Cloud-based LIMS and BIMS usually offer Software as a Service (SaaS).... read more →
Jan
17
Welcome to part two of our ‘Choosing a Higher Education CRM system’. It can be quite confusing looking for Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software for your University. With a range of systems out there that all seem to do very similar things it can be difficult to know where to... read more →
Jan
14
Welcome to part four of our ‘Choosing a LIMS’ series. We’re looking at security and how you can protect one of your most valuable assets - your data. You can manage security in LIMS in several ways. Using secure usernames and passwords to restrict access to your LIMS is just... read more →
Jan
10
Welcome to our ‘Choosing a Higher Education CRM system’ series. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software can be used to manage every step of the student journey. From initial enquiry management through to graduation and beyond! Choosing the right Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system can be confusing, time-consuming and expensive. We... read more →
Jan
07
Welcome to the third blog in the 'Choosing a LIMS' series. As a researcher or Biobank manager the belief that tomorrow can be better than today is probably something that’s at the core of your psyche. After all, research is all about trying to give people a future and trying... read more →
Dec
17
You’ll typically be looking for a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) to help your laboratory or Biobank save costs, improve quality, increase efficiency and increase revenues. You may already have a system in place that’s not quite working for you and you’re thinking about updating or even replacing it. Or... read more →
Dec
10
Welcome to blog two of the ‘Guide to Choosing a LIMS’ series. In this blog we’re tackling recommendations. It’s surprising how many people still choose a LIMS based what a colleague used in a previous role or what's been suggested by a business acquaintance. “Oh, in my previous role we... read more →
Dec
04
Welcome to blog one of the ‘Guide to Choosing a LIMS’ series. Choosing a new Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) can be daunting. The process can be time-consuming and expensive - not to mention confusing. And that’s just selecting the system. You also need to add the time, money and... read more →
Dec
02
Oh yes, it is! We thought it's about time for us to write a series of informative articles to help you choose a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Choosing a LIMS can be a minefield. With several systems and vendors out there, how do you choose the LIMS that's right... read more →
Nov
26
The competition is tough out there for Biobanks. You’re competing with commercial as well as academic Biobanks. And you need your Biobank to stand out and be noticed. You want to be the first point of call for researchers who are sourcing samples and for funders who are ready to... read more →
Nov
26
With graduation season drawing to a close, you can now allow yourself to let out a sigh of relief. It’s over for another year! Your newly awarded graduates hopefully had a lovely day to remember. Could you say the same for your team? Did everything run as smoothly as you’d... read more →
Nov
21
Thanks for stopping by to see us at the UK Biobanking showcase. We really enjoyed the event and had a great time learning and sharing ideas. We kicked off the 5th Annual UK Biobanking showcase with an informative workshop on data quality and access. Our focus for the workshop was... read more →
Nov
13
We're pleased to be attending the 5th Annual UK Biobanking Showcase on 19th November in Nottingham. It's the main event for anyone working in the Biobanking and human tissue sector. We're excited to be showcasing the latest version of our Achiever lab and sample management software. We know what it... read more →
Nov
12
Two key challenges facing your lab or Biobank are quality and efficiency. You may introduce and follow a set of standard processes to address these. And, to be successful, everyone in your lab or Biobank must follow these processes too. These processes may form your Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). You... read more →
Nov
06
When you use or implement any software system you hope it's going to improve how you do things and impact the quality and integrity of your data. When adopting new software, many companies underestimate the business changes that it will introduce. This is especially true for systems that underpin your... read more →
Oct
30
For your Biobank to be effective you need researchers to be regularly requesting your tissue samples. This means you need to make them aware of your Biobank and what you have to offer. You're competing with other Biobanks - both academic and commercial. In order to stand out from the... read more →
Oct
25
Oct
18
Oct
10
The thought of a lab audit might be enough to bring you out in a cold sweat. The dread of an audit for some is akin to a phobia. Desensitisation is said to be the most effective cure for a phobia - would this approach work for audits, too? Making... read more →
Oct
03
Biobanks are the bridge between researchers and patients. Your job is to deliver high-quality biological specimens from willing participants to expert scientists. You are the conduit between those who want to help advance scientific knowledge by donating their precious samples and those who urgently need them to further their valuable... read more →
Oct
03
Do you know what’s in your laboratory sample freezers and storage without opening them? If you dread the questions “Now, where did we put that sample?” or “What do you think is in that container?”, then it might be time to think about using a laboratory information management system (LIMS)... read more →
Sep
19
A successful Biobank is one whose tissues are in demand and being used. If your samples are "flying off the shelves" then you're a real success! However, if demand is low then effectively, you're just a tissue archive. And that's not what the donors had in mind when they generously... read more →
Sep
06
Want to publish your samples to UKCRC Tissue Directory but don’t have the time? If you are one of the many UK Biobanks that wants to maximise visibility of their samples, but it takes you weeks to get the data together to submit to the Directory – then Achiever Medical... read more →
Aug
16
As a research lab, biobank or pharmaceutical organisation your colleagues, partners, suppliers and donors are essential to your success. Without your facilities, equipment, technology, infrastructure and resources you would be unable to carry out your valuable research. And without your peers you would not be able to share new approaches,... read more →
Aug
09
When it comes to protecting your data and systems you will have security in place to stop external access and attacks. But recent events show that a security breach can just as easily come from inside your own company. When thinking about your information security you should consider protecting your... read more →
Jul
26
This week we saw another announcement in the news where personal data had been stolen. This time it was student data from a prestigious UK University. As discussed in our last blog, some systems such as those relating to healthcare or that hold medical records, encrypt data as a matter... read more →
Jul
12
The scientific research and healthcare sectors are constantly being reminded that they must protect sensitive and patient confidential data at all times. These are ingrained in their standard operating procedures and they understand too well the potential consequences of any data breaches. The need to encrypt sensitive or personal data... read more →
Jun
12
The Caldicott Principles were introduced to make sure that patient information stored across the NHS is protected and information that could identify patients is only accessed when appropriate to do so. There are currently seven principles; six of these have been around since 1997 with the seventh added in 2013.... read more →
Jun
07
If you have recently received a grant from a funding body, then you’ll probably have to demonstrate how well you are using that funding and the difference it is making. So how do you do that without it taking up too much of your research time? When you are evidencing... read more →
May
31
You spent months (if not years) searching for the best software to do what your teams wanted. You devoted many hours speaking to your teams to get a list of requirements that you could then document as part of a tender. You evaluated suppliers, took up references and confirmed with... read more →
May
23
As a new or established Biobank you face many challenges and considerations. These include financing, ongoing cost recovery, collection logistics and where you will store your biological samples. In addition, you may need to manage distribution and usage agreements, intellectual property issues and decide what system you will use to... read more →
May
17
Money is always tight these days. In addition, in these uncertain times everyone is little more cautious. This is even more true for funding bodies, whether they are governmental departments having to tighten their belts or small charities managing their generously given donations. All funders are looking for the maximum... read more →
May
09
Whether you are setting up a new Biobank or reapplying for further funding, you need to demonstrate to the funding bodies that their money will be put to best use and be used efficiently. You need to ensure that you tick all of the right boxes and, if it is... read more →
May
02
Most people dread an audit and many businesses see compliance as something they have to do to get a 'tick in the box'. However, with the right foundations and focus on building quality into your standard operating procedures, laboratory compliance can become your every day. As a technology business, we put... read more →
Apr
26
The question of whether to build or buy software can be difficult to answer. If you have a dedicated IT team the idea of creating your own system to manage your data and processes can seem attractive. The apparently long-winded process of sourcing software suppliers and products can seem time-intensive and... read more →
Apr
18
Like most laboratories, your standard operating procedures (SOPs) are probably well-documented and stored in a centralised document repository. Your researchers, lab managers and other lab personnel may also have attended training sessions on your SOPs. But how can you tell if your team have been accurately following them and your... read more →
Apr
11
‘CM-Path Biobanking Workshop - Do We Really Need Another Biobank?’ is focused on the challenges affecting new and existing Biobanks. The Biobanking Workshop will bring together experts offering real-world advice on topics ranging from funders expectations to quality and sustainability. Whether you are a new or established Biobank, our experienced... read more →
Apr
11
Apr
05
Collecting lab data can seem like a laborious administrative job. It can be perceived as taking up your team’s precious time. Your team, whose time could be better spent carrying out valuable research instead of typing in notes. However, if you are a data driven-business, your laboratory sample data is... read more →
Mar
28
How can you determine whether you are gaining optimum value from your biological samples? Firstly, you need to understand exactly what you mean by ‘value’. There are some Biobank managers who pride themselves on the number of samples they currently have stored in their inventory. Some can see this as... read more →
Mar
21
As an HTA Designated Individual you feel the responsibilities and challenges for compliance with the Human Tissue Act every day. You not only have an ethical and moral duty to comply but also a legal one. As an external HTA inspection nears, the question of whether you are HTA compliant... read more →
Mar
15
Never has the competition amongst the UK’s leading Universities been so tough. The ripples of recent political decisions have been felt by everyone. Compounding this are the rapid changes in technology and how best to interact with potential students. The pressure on University Marketing and Event departments to not only... read more →
Mar
08
Traditionally, Laboratory Information Management systems (LIMS), Biobanking software and Sample Management solutions have been seen as complicated, functional applications. These data-driven systems have focused on rigid laboratory processes with user-experience often relegated to the future. However, with the emergence of precision medicine and patient-centric approaches to research and clinical trials,... read more →
Feb
26
When the term ‘Next Generation Biobanking’ was introduced a couple of years ago, it underlined the importance of storing clinical data, such as diagnosis, clinical trial and treatment information alongside sample data. You measure your Biobank's value on how you optimise and use your samples in investigative research. Not by... read more →
Feb
05
‘Are you aware that your selected research samples are from only 3 donors?’ We asked this question to one of our customer's after we imported their data into our lab sample management software, Achiever Medical. The import included information taken from several spreadsheets. And it was only when we imported... read more →
Jan
25
Storing biological samples takes up valuable space and resources and can be very expensive. Holding your biological samples in off-site storage facilities may free up space and administrative resource. However, you still end up paying a considerable amount. Biological samples that come into your laboratory for use in research are... read more →
Jan
10
You need accurate information to thrive and grow. You are capturing more and more information about your customers to deliver tailored services and options. Technology has evolved to help you capture and manage your data - in increasing volumes. You may be using large databases to help you manage your... read more →
Dec
06
‘Audit’ – the mere mention of the word can strike fear into the heart of even the most experienced and organised of laboratory managers. You can spend hours - sometimes weeks - preparing for an external audit. You can spend time collating information, formatting documents, and ensuring your teams is... read more →
Nov
22
Your data is one of your most valuable assets. Without quality controls and standards in place, your data can very quickly become inaccurate, out of date and difficult to use. Although data management tools such as spreadsheets and document management systems are simple to use, they very quickly become unstructured.... read more →
Oct
18
The validity of your research depends on the quality of the tissue samples you're using. You need to have full traceability of your tissues to really understand their quality - and viability. This can be difficult if you are using disparate, legacy systems, and/or spreadsheets, to manage your tissues. You... read more →
Jul
29
GDPR stands for General Data Protection Regulation and was designed to give EU citizens more control over their data. The GDPR legislation came into force on 25th May 2018. Its introduction was very difficult to ignore due to the deluge of “Security Policy update” emails that went out. You’ve updated... read more →
May
20
Hands up who loves to be audited! In truth, not many people relish the idea of an upcoming audit. They are often perceived as a looming black cloud and that they get in the way of the day-to-day work or a lab or tissue bank. However, a good audit can... read more →
May
07
We’ve heard about the impending legislation that’s shaking up the marketing and business worlds and causing all of those “We’re updating our databases” letters and “privacy notices” that keep dropping through our letter boxes, but what does it mean for you? Also, what changes do you need in your CRM... read more →