LIMS

Definition

A Laboratory Information and Management System (LIMS) is a software solution for managing, tracking, and organising laboratory data, workflows, and samples. It increases efficiency, ensures data integrity, and supports regulatory compliance in research, quality control, and production laboratories.

Extended Explanation

A LIMS centralises sample tracking, test results, instrument integration, and compliance management. This reduces manual errors and streamlines processes. Modern LIMS solutions provide automation capabilities, cloud-based access, and AI-powered analytics to improve data-driven decision-making.
Quality assurance in particular relies on LIMS to ensure structured and traceable data processes. Some systems also integrate Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems to enable fully digitalised, end-to-end laboratory workflows.

What is the difference between LIMS and ELN?

A LIMS focuses on sample management, workflow automation, and regulatory requirements, making it essential for quality assurance laboratories. An ELN (Electronic Lab Notebook), on the other hand, is designed for documenting experiments, observations, and research data. While a LIMS structures operational laboratory processes, an ELN supports scientific documentation and collaboration. Many modern LIMS platforms integrate ELN functionality to provide a more comprehensive laboratory informatics solution.

How does a LIMS improve laboratory efficiency?

A LIMS eliminates manual data entry, reduces errors, and ensures consistent documentation of laboratory processes. It automates sample tracking, test results, and reporting—leading to faster turnaround times and improved compliance. Advanced LIMS solutions use AI and analytics to extract insights from historical data, optimise workflows, and support better decision-making.

Disadvantages

A LIMS performs best when laboratory workflows are clearly defined. It reliably manages sample administration, traceability, audit trails, and certificates. This is why LIMS systems have been well established in regulated environments for many years. However, implementation is often associated with significant effort: customisation typically requires programming, and the overall project scope frequently reaches six-figure budgets. For research and development, a traditional LIMS is therefore only suitable to a limited extent. Its core logic is built for repeatable workflows—well aligned with quality control, but less suitable for the iterative, exploratory processes that characterise R&D.

Synonyms and related terms

Laboratory software, sample management system, laboratory informatics platform, Material Intelligence, data integration, AI in the laboratory