ELN (Electronic Lab Notebook)
Definition
An Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) is a digital tool that replaces traditional paper-based laboratory notebooks used to document experimental procedures, results, and observations in research and laboratory environments. It improves data traceability, collaboration, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Expanded Explanation
An ELN serves as a central, searchable platform for recording and managing experimental data. Researchers and laboratory personnel can create, edit, and organize protocols, notes, images, and datasets in real time. Unlike paper notebooks, ELNs support version control, digital signatures, and integration with other laboratory systems such as LIMS, instruments, and data analysis platforms.
By digitizing scientific documentation, ELNs improve reproducibility, reduce data loss, and facilitate collaboration across teams and locations. They also support compliance with industry regulations (e.g., GLP, FDA 21 CFR Part 11) through audit trails, access controls, and secure data storage.
Key functions of an ELN:
- Structured documentation of experiments and procedures
- Integration with laboratory instruments and databases
- Collaboration tools for team-based research
- Audit trails and mechanisms for regulatory compliance
Relevance to LabV
LabV extends the capabilities of an ELN by embedding structured experimental data into its Material Intelligence Platform. While a traditional ELN focuses primarily on documentation, LabV goes a step further by unifying data entries with real-time material properties, test results, processes, and AI-driven insights on a single platform.
LabV enables automated data structuring, AI-powered analyses, and intelligent search across test results and formulation data. This transforms the ELN from a passive documentation tool into an active resource for decision-making and innovation acceleration. LabV’s integration ensures seamless workflows between data entry, analysis, and optimization — particularly for R&D and quality assurance teams in materials science.
FAQ
What is the difference between an ELN and a LIMS?
An ELN is used to document research and experiments, whereas a LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) focuses on sample tracking, workflow automation, and regulatory reporting. ELNs capture the “how” and “why,” while LIMS manages the “what” and “when.”
A Material Intelligence Platform goes even further: it connects data, workflows, and AI within a single system.
Why are ELNs important in modern laboratories?
ELNs improve data integrity, enable collaboration, and simplify regulatory compliance. They reduce administrative workload and ensure that research is well-documented, reproducible, and auditable.
Synonyms & Related Terms
Digital lab notebook, scientific data journal, electronic research notebook
Internal Links
LIMS, Data Integration, Material Intelligence, AI in Laboratories