One of the most transformative technological advancements for laboratories in the last decades is lab automation.
Automated systems increase efficiency while improving the quality of results, allowing a lab to enhance its capabilities, scale operations, and expand its customer base.
Furthermore, integrating automated lab solutions with a robust LIMS like Labbit enables laboratories to maximize the benefits of automated technology.
Lab automation is the use of automated equipment, instruments, and software to simplify and streamline scientific tasks with minimal manual involvement and human supervision. A laboratory automation system enhances efficiency, quality, and safety.
Automation also harnesses the full potential of lab staff. With robotics programmed to handle repetitive tasks, scientists can concentrate on more complex, higher-value work, increasing throughput.
As Amber Rudd has stated:
Automation is driving the decline of banal and repetitive tasks.
Amber Rudd, former Work & Pensions Secretary, UK
Laboratory automation optimizes operations on various levels.
For instance, by integrating an automated system, a clinical laboratory can carry out more tests while its scientists have more time to pay scientists have more time to focus on quality and interpretation of results.
Indeed, after an upgrade in the laboratory automation systems at a Swiss Hospital, its Deputy CEO, A. Huber, confirms:
Actually, the quality was getting much better because we had more time to examine the samples and results more carefully.
Andreas Huber, Deputy CEO, Kantonsspital Aarau, Switzerland
One of Labbit’s highest throughput customers, Helix, noted that after using the LIMS to automate workflows:
From logging in to completing a workbook, every click matters when you are processing tens of thousands of samples within a given shift. Labbit simplifies everything for the operator allowing them to turn their focus where it belongs: on their bench work. They interact with the instrument which communicates with Labbit, seamlessly progressing samples behind the scene. Tasks that previously took 20 minutes can now be completed in under 5.
Tyler Cassens, Senior Product Manager, Helix, San Mateo, California
In pharmaceutical R&D, a total laboratory automation (TLA) approach can significantly shorten the time from bench to bedside. Some industry experts claim that such time savings can reach up to 18 months while minimizing costs by approximately 25%.
Automation can take over numerous tasks across laboratory workflows for conducting experiments, performing assays, and managing the operational side of things. For instance, using software, equipment, and instruments to:
Picking the most repetitive and strenuous jobs is the best place to start when setting up your automated laboratory.
First and foremost, the aim is to allow your staff to concentrate on areas where their expertise is essential.
Then, you can work your way up to cover all 4D’s of automation. In other words, tasks that are Dull, Dirty, Dangerous, or Dear.
Automated tasks in a lab can include:
Different types of labs can leverage lab automation technology and elevate their processes.
Automated lab solutions can simultaneously prepare, label, and sort multiple samples and produce high-quality outcomes. This helps clinical labs meet market demand for reduced acquisition time and upgraded results.
Just like clinical labs, automation within medical labs elevates data management and diagnostic procedures. At the same time, it also complements research and testing for improved treatment development.
Automated chemistry leverages technologies like chemical synthesis, high-throughput drug screening, and immunoassays.
Among other benefits, automated chemical labs can run sensitive chemical reactions that could otherwise be affected by minor fluctuations in reaction conditions.
Automation in microbiology labs can effectively handle media preparation and additive combinations in bulk. Similarly, automated cell culture incubators are easily programmed to test a range of culture conditions while generating accurate records for rapid review.
Even though many genomics labs currently rely on benchtop automation, specialized staff is still required to perform certain tedious tasks manually, like pipetting and moving consumables.
Lab automation empowers genomics labs to reach their full potential, minimizing manual touchpoints, errors, and contamination risks. Thus, they can handle dramatically more samples in less time.
Automation in research and development laboratories accommodates custom workflows, rapid test iterations, evolving processes, and emerging requirements.
The integration of robotics and AI facilitates highly complex automated tasks and effectively analyzes data flowing from various instruments, sensors, systems, research teams, and partners.
Quality lab automation takes various forms, whether through standalone automated analyzers or tracking systems connecting multiple systems.
Moreover, automated instruments such as robotic arms and scheduling software identify inefficiencies, accelerate sample processing times, and reduce backlogs - among other benefits.
Lab automation has numerous advantages for life science as well as food and beverage laboratories. To name a few:
Fewer Errors
Laboratory robotics and automation mitigate the risk of errors and inconsistencies at all process steps. In pipetting, for example, precise sample quantities and data recording provide consistent, error-free results.
Increased Productivity
Automated laboratory systems support standardization, repeatability, and reproducibility, freeing staff from repetitive tasks and protocols.
As a result, more time and resources can be allocated to research, meetings, and other high-level priorities that positively impact productivity, innovation, and employee well-being.
Incorporating a powerful LIMS solution like Labbit in your automated laboratory furthers production, as it simultaneously manages resources and workforce capacity.
Labbit can flexibly track all workflow elements, such as reagents, consumables, instruments, and personnel - enabling automatic management of key resources to ensure smooth lab operations.
Laboratory automation systems standardize procedures and documentation. They log and store experimental parameters, sample information, and procedural steps, minimizing the risk of data inconsistencies or loss.
Results are reproducible, auditable, and compliant with regulatory requirements for increased credibility and reliability.
Furthermore, automation systems seamlessly integrate with LIMS, enabling efficient data transfer and analysis - so that scientific discovery and innovation accelerate.
As a top LIMS software, Labbit can be configured to automatically exchange information bidirectionally with any relevant system, integrating data from all sources to uncover new insights.
To fully take advantage of an automated lab solution, robotics and LIMS must work hand-in-hand, with information flowing both ways. LIMS can also control data transfer between robotics systems and other external processes.
Lab automation with LIMS integration offers significant advantages, such as:
Designed to manage end-to-end laboratory processes, Labbit is more than a traditional LIMS for sample management.
Labbit provides comprehensive and accurate datasets by handling key processes like order management, inventory management, data management, and more.
It integrates seamlessly with your systems to elevate your lab’s operational efficiency. To learn more about what’s possible with Labbit, book a demo today.