20 Best Laboratory Software for 2025

Laboratories are crucial facilities not only for carrying out experiments and helping diagnose diseases but also for the progress of scientific knowledge in general. However, the complex nature of laboratory work makes these facilities prone to several problems. Common issues with laboratory operations include poor equipment management, inefficient workflows, and staff shortages.

To deal with these problems and ensure smooth, efficient operations, laboratories across the country rely on tools such as laboratory software and laboratory information management software. To this end, one study found that 47% of laboratories used one or two of these tools across the enterprise (Astrix, 2020).

This article lists 20 of the best laboratory software today, providing an overview and a list of key features of each product. Hopefully, this guide can help laboratory administrators and staff figure out which laboratory management platform can best meet their needs.

Laboratories are essential facilities for the scientific and academic community. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of laboratories in research and public health. In the United States alone, for instance, clinical and diagnostic laboratories have performed more than 900 million COVID-19 tests as of June 2022 (Our World in Data, 2022).

Of course, not all laboratories in the U.S. perform clinical or diagnostic functions. Recent industry research has found that there are 260,000 laboratories in the country, and this figure likely includes research and university labs and national laboratories run by the U.S. Department of Energy.

While recent data on non-clinical laboratories appear to be scarce, figures on medical laboratories indicate an upward trend in revenue until 2024.

Laboratory Management Challenges Statistics

Despite the important roles of laboratories and the industry’s projected revenue growth, laboratory management is not without its challenges. For instance, one study by Qian et al. (2022) found that laboratories in colleges and universities often face issues such as low operation efficiency, inadequate inspection of equipment, and poor design and layout.

Perhaps a more pressing issue is the worsening staffing shortage reported by medical laboratories in the U.S. According to lab workers, low staffing numbers are a result of the pandemic, though others report that laboratory technicians and specialists have already been in short supply for over two decades before the COVID-19 outbreak (Rohde, 2022).

To keep up with the increased demands for lab work due to factors like population aging and the continued spread of COVID-19 and its variants, demand for laboratory workers remains high. The 2021 Survey of Temporary Allied Healthcare Professional Staff Trends indicates that many healthcare facilities in the country today seek laboratory technologists to supplement their existing staff.

Unfortunately, the demand for medical laboratory technologists and other laboratory professionals is only expected to grow in the next decade. The most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that employment for clinical laboratory technicians and technologists is expected to grow by 11% until 2030, faster than the average employment growth for all occupations (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

With this data, healthcare market experts expect the high demand for laboratory technologists to outlast the pandemic.

Laboratory Software Statistics

To cope with the challenges of lab management and the demands of running an efficient laboratory, many laboratory managers and administrators depend on the best laboratory software. Laboratory software is a broad suite of products that typically include laboratory information systems (LIS) and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).

Though both tools are widely used in labs today, there are some differences between an LIS and an LIMS. While LIS are typically used in clinical settings for processing data related to individual patients, LIMS are used in group-centric settings and process data related to batches of samples (Laboratory Information System, n.d.).

Despite their different functions, both types of lab software bring benefits to laboratory workers. For instance, one study reveals that over 80% of laboratory workers think that a LIS improves overall laboratory services. Likewise, 61% of LIMS users cite the elimination of manual processes as the most significant benefit of using the tool (Astrix, 2020).

Technology is playing a significant role in advancing laboratory management by introducing innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and accuracy. Here’s how: 

• Automation of repetitive tasks: Modern laboratory software automates routine tasks such as data entry, sample tracking, and reporting, reducing human error and freeing up staff to focus on higher-value activities.
• Cloud computing: Cloud-based laboratory software solutions provide easy access to data from any location, offering improved collaboration, data security, and the ability to scale without needing significant infrastructure investments.
• Artificial intelligence (AI): AI algorithms are being integrated into laboratory management tools to predict trends, optimize workflows, and identify anomalies in data, leading to faster and more accurate decision-making.
• IoT integration: Internet of Things (IoT) devices in laboratories enable real-time monitoring of equipment, temperature, and environmental conditions, ensuring optimal conditions for experiments and reducing equipment downtime.
• Data analytics and visualization: Advanced analytics tools are helping laboratories make sense of complex data, generating insights that drive operational improvements and better decision-making.

These technologies are revolutionizing how laboratories operate, enabling them to provide faster, more accurate results while reducing operational costs.

How Can Feedback Surveys Enhance Laboratory Management?

Regularly integrating structured feedback into laboratory operations can pinpoint process inefficiencies and foster continuous improvement. Leveraging automated tools—such as survey software—ensures that insights from staff and stakeholders are gathered systematically. This targeted feedback aids in early identification of emerging issues, supports data-driven decision-making, and optimizes resource allocation without disrupting existing workflows. Furthermore, automated survey tools facilitate actionable analytics that contribute to refining standard operating procedures and enhancing overall laboratory performance.

List of 20 Best Laboratory Software

1. CGM LABDAQ: Intuitive, Industry-Leading Lab Management Software

CGM LABDAQ is a laboratory management software designed for a wide variety of laboratories, including reference laboratories, hospitals, veterinary offices, and physician offices. The software streamlines workflows and improves profitability, ensuring lab tests are billed correctly and eliminating the need for manual data entry. The platform also seamlessly connects with EHR and practice management software, ensuring easier use and improved patient care.

Key Features of CGM LABDAQ

• Connectivity with billing, EHR, and practice management systems
• Bi-directional interfaces
• User-friendly interface
• Automated pre-analytic, analytic, and post-analytic activities
• Regulatory and HIPAA compliance
• Cost accounting reports
• Specimen labeling and storage
• Real-time data exports
• Critical call logs and audit reports
• Password protection
• User permission settings
• Corrective action logs
• Document management
• Workflow management
• Automated workflow rules engine
• Data Miner
• Lab IQ interactive dashboard
• Inventory management
• Client services

Use Cases

• National and regional reference laboratories
• State health departments
• Veterinary offices
• Physician offices
• Clinics and hospitals
• Labs performing toxicology and PCR testing

2. LabOS: A Next-Generation Cloud-Based LIS Powered by AI

LabOS is a cloud-based LIS that uses AI-supported decision-making logic to enable customized, automated workflows for data tracking. To improve patient care and ensure easy access, the platform also collects patient results into one consolidated report across all lab disciplines. Interested users can also choose among additional modules for mobile use, patient access to lab results, and physician portals. Additionally, the platform bears the key functionalities of billing and invoice software with its billing module.

Key Features of LabOS

• Laboratory department integration
• Scalable platform
• AI-powered decision-making logic
• Real-time alerts for results and reports
• Consolidated reports for patient results
• LabWay module add-on (mobile phlebotomist app)
• Personalized pickup routes for traveling phlebotomists
• Billing module add-on
• Flexible fee schedules
• Accurate travel calculations
• Multiple invoice formats
• LabMD module add-on (physician portal)
• Smart sample collection
• MyLab module add-on (mobile patient portal)

Use Cases

• Research laboratories
• Commercial laboratories
• Hospitals
• Clinics
• HMOs

3. LimitLIS: A Scalable, Turnkey LIS for Easier Sample Management

A product of Azenta Life Sciences, LimitLIS is a cloud-based laboratory informatics solution that helps labs automate workloads for sample processing. The software also uses standardized processes to optimize staff workloads, ensuring utmost productivity for labs. For added efficiency, the platform also comes with modules for managing clinical trials, organizing client information, and managing sample storage sites.

Key Features of LimitLIS

• Automatic inventory monitoring
• Consent management
• Clinical trial management software functions
• Sample storage management
• Sample processing
• Easy data search
• Report generation
• File import and export
• Integrates with external data sources
• Ontology and vocabulary management
• Role-based security
• Regulatory compliance
• Dashboards
• Email templates

Use Cases

• Diagnostics
• Clinical research
• Sample storage and management

4. Dendi LIS: A LIS with Purpose-Built Solutions for Laboratory Growth

Dendi LIS comes with an extensive set of features to help laboratories scale operations. The software was designed with user experience in mind, so users can expect an intuitive interface for features like the integrated provider portal and patient portal. The platform also comes with built-in analytics to help laboratory managers and administrators gain insights into data and make data-driven decisions.

Key Features of Dendi LIS

• Cloud-based deployment
• Seamless integrations with billing, EHR, and ecommerce software
• User-optimized design
• Multi-modality workflows
• Integrated Provider Portal
• Patient Registration and Results Portal
• Revenue cycle management
• Built-in tools for analytics and data administration
• Data management compliance
• Compliance with HIPAA, CLIA, and CAP

Use Cases

• Diagnostics
• Medical laboratories
• Bioanalytical laboratories
• COVID-19 testing centers

5. LIS 365: Market-Leading LIS for Unique Lab Environments

LIS 365 is designed to help maintain the productivity and efficiency of different laboratory environments. The platform comes with rules-based technology to streamline workflows, while an interface monitoring tool provides user alerts to ensure everything is working as intended. A built-in dashboard also helps users monitor laboratory performance metrics, along with automatic quality control analysis and flagging according to defined fail parameters

Key Features of LIS365

• Rules-based technology
• Unlimited configurable rules
• Interactive dashboard
• Interface monitoring tool
• Comprehensive report functionalities
• Sample receiving
• Quality control management
• User-friendly interface
• High availability and disaster recovery
• Batch reports
• Memorized reports
• Audit trails
• Automatic QC analysis and flagging
• Orderless QC
• Patient Module
• Temperature Monitoring
• Document Management
• Prescription adherence
• Specimen Storage System
• Inventory Management
• Necessity Checking
• Billing Module

Use Cases

• Molecular diagnostics and testing

6. Merge RIS (IBM Watson Health): An Advanced Radiology System for Improved Productivity

Now a part of IBM Watson Health, Merge RIS is a radiology system designed to efficiently store and distribute patients’ radiology information. This radiology information system also helps improve profitability through automated tools for lung screening and appointment scheduling. With these features, laboratories and imaging centers can find new revenue streams, maintain existing relationships with physicians, and improve resource utilization.

Key Features of Merge RIS

• Patient self-scheduling
• Automated tools for CT lung screening and clinical trial programs
• Automated appointment waitlist tools
• Online scheduling tools
• Remote pre-registration
• Mobile check-in
• Appointment confirmation
• Billing and analytics

Use Cases

• Enterprise systems
• Outpatient centers
• Imaging centers
• Life sciences
• Healthcare providers

7. CDD Vault: A Smart LIS Made For Scientists

CDD Vault is a LIS designed with a focus on science, particularly biology and chemistry. The platform makes it easy to organize assay data and ensures easy, secure collaboration with internal or external partners. Through the software, users can also customize reports and collate all data of interest into a single table for easier data exports. Moreover, the platform works as an electronic lab notebook that makes notes and annotations easier to share.

Key Features of CDD Vault

• Made for biology and chemistry scientists
• Web-based application
• Assay data management
• SAR analysis
• Import large data sets
• Supports boolean logic and Tanimoto similarities
• Two-factor authentication
• IP tracking
• Legal compliance
• Audit tracking
• Electronic lab notebook
• Annotation sharing
• Customized reports
• Visual analysis tool
• Publication-quality graphics

Use Cases

• Biotech and pharmaceutical laboratories
• Research laboratories
• Consortia and collaborations
• Consumer goods
• Agritechnology
• CRO

8. Thermo Fisher SampleManager LIMS: A Comprehensive, Configurable LIMS for Unique Workflows

Thermo Fisher SampleManager LIMS offers a comprehensive set of features for managing laboratory operations, streamlining data and procedural workflows, and managing instruments and equipment. Through the software, users can configure automated workflows to match their unique laboratory processes. With built-in analytics solutions, the software also provides valuable insights into laboratory operations, including resource availability and stock information.

Key Features of Thermo Fisher SampleManager LIMS

• Secure system access
• Compliance with the latest industry regulations
• Out-of-the-box dashboards for key business and laboratory insights
• Laboratory execution system software
• Complete process history
• Configurable workflows
• Native mobile application
• Centralized chromatography and MS data management
• Integrations with ERP and MES systems
• Cloud or on-premise deployment
• Built-in electronic lab notebook
• Scientific data management system
• Contract lab testing and portal
• Hands-free access through mixed reality accessories

Use Cases

• Oil and Gas
• Metals and Mining
• Forensic Testing
• Food and Beverage Testing
• Pharmaceutical Manufacturing QA
• Contract Laboratories
• Clinical Testing and Molecular Diagnostics

9. LigoLab LIS: All-in-One, Enterprise-Grade Software for End-to-End Lab Management

LigoLab LIS is designed to ensure efficient day-to-day operations for any lab. The system is scalable, supporting groups of up to 100 pathologists at multiple sites and locations. The platform also supports automation for routine workflows like data tracking, testing, and reporting, freeing up laboratory technicians’ time for more important tasks.

Key Features of LigoLab LIS

• Automated workflows
• Intuitive user interface
• Advanced, customizable reporting
• Comprehensive audit trail
• Real-time queues for each lab role
• Search capabilities for patient data
• Real-time specimen management and tracking
• Decision and support rules for evaluating test results
• Patient sample identification, tracking, and management
• Financial management

Use Cases

• Anatomic Pathology
• Clinical Laboratories
• Molecular Diagnostics

10. Clustermarket: Simple All-in-One Lab Software for Improved Research Productivity

Clustermarket helps scientists focus on making breakthroughs rather than routine lab management tasks. The software handles user management and equipment booking by letting users set their own rules and protocols for these workflows. The software also serves as a centralized communication platform to ensure all users receive important announcements and notes. Moreover, the platform provides utilization reporting and analysis to help lab managers track equipment utilization and income.

Key Features of Clustermarket

• User management
• User roles and access rules
• User authorization
• Equipment booking rules and guidelines
• Shared calendar for equipment bookings and technical service orders
• Announcements and equipment notes
• QR code stickers for instruments and lab equipment
• Lab equipment utilization reports
• Lab work and expenses reports
• Unlimited projects
• Lab user codes with expiry dates
• GDPR compliance
• Data encryption
• Pricing plans: Basic (free, for academia and industry), Academia Plus ($20 per laboratory, per month), Industry Plus ($40 per laboratory, per month)

Use Cases

• Academic laboratories
• Industry laboratories
• Startups

11. Avalon Laboratory System: LIS for Integrating Lab Data with Electronic Medical Records

Avalon LIS comes with specialized modules to help laboratory technicians and managers organize workflows for testing, quality control, and billing. Through the system, test orders are routed directly to laboratory instruments once entered, ensuring improved accuracy. One of the platform’s most useful features is that it seamlessly connects lab data with EMR systems, making it easier to access and transfer patient data when needed.

Key Features of Avalon LIS

• Automated communication between lab instrumentation and the main system
• Support for 350 instrument interfaces
• Web Outreach Portal for clients, physicians, and lab employees
• Physician Portal
• Automated quality control module
• Integration with EMR systems
• Uni-directional EMR interfaces
• Bi-directional EMR interfaces
• Prescheduling module
• Remote Laboratory Module
• SQL Access Module
• Billing module

Use Cases

• Clinical laboratories
• Diagnostic laboratories
• Microbiology
• Pain management and toxicology
• Pharmacogenomics

12. ClinLab LIS: LIS with Versatile Interface Support

ClinLab LIS is a state-of-the-art LIS designed by medical technologists. The software is designed to be a scalable solution for labs of all sizes and disciplines. The platform serves as a secure data warehouse for lab results and provides a complete set of quality control and security tools. Moreover, this LIS improves workflows for sample management and data access.

Key Features for ClinLab LIS

• Built-in reporting
• Data acquisition
• Label printing
• Electronic signoff
• Optional web order entry/results view
• Instrument interfacing
• Integrations with HIS, practice management, and EHR solutions
• Bi-directional interfaces
• Quality control and security tools
• HIPAA compliance

Use Cases

• Point-of-Care laboratories
• Multi-user, multi-location clinical facilities
• National and regional reference laboratories

13. FindMolecule: LIS Focused on More Efficient Chemical Inventory Management

FindMolecule is a laboratory management system that doubles as a chemical inventory platform and electronic lab notebook. The system allows users to track orders even without the use of email and update inventory through barcode scanning. As an electronic lab notebook, the software provides features for signing and counter-signing and makes team collaboration easier through data sharing.

Key Features of FindMolecule

• Easy setup
• Order tracking
• Barcode scanning
• Electronic lab notebook
• Sign and countersign experiments
• Chemical inventory management
• Search products by structure
• One-click reorders
• Data encryption
• Real-time tracking for hazardous products
• Free license for academia
• Designed for chemists and biologists

Use Cases

• Academic laboratories
• Pharmaceuticals

14. CrelioHealth LIMS: A Reliable LIMS with Fully Automated, Configurable Features

CrelioHealth LIMS is designed to streamline a wide variety of workflows to help medical labs become future-ready. For instance, the platform automates quality control processes and seamlessly integrates with EMRS to automate orders and results distribution. Workflows such as sample processing and instrument interfacing can be automated and customized according to laboratories’ unique requirements as well.

Key Features of CrelioHealth LMS

• Patient Portal with Payments
• Online Physician Provider Portal
• Integrations with EMR
• Automated quality control
• Configurable workflows
• Dedicated app for lab and diagnostics managers, physicians, doctors, and phlebotomists
• Data encryption
• HIPAA compliant

Use Cases

• Medical laboratories
• Diagnostic laboratories and businesses
• Microbiology
• Clinical pathology
• Molecular pathology
• Anatomic pathology
• Genetic testing
• Toxicology

15. CloudLIMS: SaaS LIMS for Full Sample Lifecycle Management

CloudLIMS is a LIMS designed to support laboratories in automating workflows and efficiently managing samples throughout their full lifecycles. The platform also helps manage complex laboratory processes such as sample requisition, inventory management, and collaborative studies. For added convenience, the software also seamlessly integrates with analytical instruments, so test results can be automatically imported. This helps reduce transcription errors as well.

Key Features of CloudLIMS

• Instrument integration
• Unlimited reporting templates
• Automatic data backups
• Test management
• Client portal
• Patient portal
• Inventory management
• Staff training management
• Service and billing management
• Study management
• Hierarchical storage units for samples
• Shipment tracking
• Sample source management
• Multi-analyte test results
• Regulatory compliance

Use Cases

• Biobanks
• Clinical laboratories
• Research laboratories
• Analytical testing laboratories

16. PROLIS: Comprehensive, Intuitive LIMS for Multi-Function Laboratories

PROLIS LIMS is designed to improve the performance of hospitals and reference labs of all sizes through automation capabilities. The platform comes with a dedicated web portal for viewing patient results, processing client orders, and generating reports. The software also allows users to create reports and schedule the automatic delivery of results to clients, patients, and colleagues.

Key Features of PROLIS LIMS

• Physician panels
• Laboratory-barcode system
• Patient scheduling
• Audit trails
• Remote accessioning
• Integrated medical billing
• Search tool for physicians
• Integrated reporting
• Dedicated web portal
• Set delivery schedules of results
• Rule-based configuration of services
• EMR/analyzer integrations

Use Cases

• Hospital laboratories
• Physician’s offices
• Toxicology laboratories
• Clinical laboratories
• Multi-functional laboratories

17. LabWare LIMS: Top-Ranked LIMS with Three Decades of Industry Expertise

With 30 years of experience to its name, LabWare LIMS is one of the most trusted laboratory information management systems today. A unique feature of this LIMS is that it offers multiple deployment options, including cloud deployment, LabWare-hosted deployment, and LabWare SaaS. The software also helps all types of laboratories achieve operational efficiency through automated workflows, instrument integrations, and streamlined documentation.

Key Features of LabWare LIMS

• Instrument interfacing
• Sample management
• Batch manager
• Stability management
• Lot management
• Result Entry
• Automated workflows and dashboards
• Stakeholder portal
• Data visualization and analytics
• Barcode scanning
• User certification

Use Cases

• Bio-banking and Clinical
• CBD/THC
• Contract Services
• Environmental
• Food and Beverage
• Forensics
• Healthcare
• Mining and Metals
• Oil and Gas
• Pharmaceutical
• Process and Chemical

18. Sunquest Laboratory: Market-Leading LIMS for Faster, More Versatile Laboratory Operations

Sunquest Laboratory is designed to support comprehensive laboratory workflows and help laboratories efficiently deliver accurate results. The software is also versatile, with capabilities to support multi-disciplinary and multi-site environments. Moreover, the platform helps maximize patient safety and ensures utmost clinical quality by optimizing processes for specimen handling and improving turnaround times for results.

Key Features of Sunquest Laboratory

• Specimen Management Routing and Tracking barcode technology
• Clean order capture
• Collaborative reporting
• Lean workflows
• Secondary reviews from any device
• Multi-lab, multi-disciplinary, multi-site capabilities
• Automatic test routing and sharing
• Integrations with EHR, EMR, and HIS
• Label print options, including 2D barcodes
• Reflex testing across departments
• Regulatory compliance
• Single sign on
• Lab-defined administration and security protocol
• User lock-out features

Use Cases

• Microbiology
• Blood banks
• Molecular testing

19. Quartzy: LIS Designed to Empower Life Sciences Research

Quartzy serves as an end-to-end solution for managing different types of laboratory workflows. The software centralizes all lab operations in a single platform so lab staff can focus on research instead of management tasks. For added convenience, this lab software also comes with features for inventory management and request management. Users also get access to over 10 million life sciences products through the built-in Quartzy Shop feature.

Key Features of Quartzy

• Inventory management
• Order request management
• Import from Excel, Google Sheets, or Claris FileMaker
• Create locations and sub-locations
• Advanced search and filters
• Limit editing privileges
• Custom email notifications for requests
• Automated additions to inventory
• Approval thresholds
• Customizable approval steps
• Access to over 10 million products from more than 1,800 life science brands (Quartzy Shop)
• Active order tracking
• Integrations with thousands of tools, including Slack, NetSuite, Google Calendar, and QuickBooks

Use cases

• Early-stage biotech companies
• Academic laboratories
• Public companies
• Life sciences organizations
• Pharmaceutical laboratories

20. NucleoLIS: A Flexible LIS Tailor-Made for Molecular and Genetic Testing Requirements

NucleoLIS is a lab testing software designed to meet the unique needs of laboratory-defined tests, including genetic and molecular testing. As such, the software allows users to create and configure specific test menus and workflows and set up rules-based logic for reflex testing. For added functionality, the software also comes with built-in billing features and reporting tools.

Key Features of NucleoLIS

• Supports DNA/RNA sequencing, PCR, FISH, immunology, and toxicology testing
• Full construction and configuration of specific test menus
• Rules-based logic for reflex testing
• Highly customizable report formatting
• Worksheet creation
• Batch/run management
• Ask at Order Entry Questions
• Built-in reporting tool
• Billing functionality
• Instrument review
• Specimen storage manager
• Support for familial relationships
• Signature options

Use cases

• Toxicology laboratories
• Molecular laboratories
• Clinical laboratories

The Role of Inventory Management in Laboratory Efficiency

Efficient inventory management is a cornerstone of smooth laboratory operations, yet it remains a significant challenge for organizations. Laboratories often deal with a large volume of reagents, chemicals, lab supplies, and equipment, all of which must be tracked and replenished systematically. Mismanagement can lead to wasted resources, operational delays, and compliance risks.

Leveraging laboratory software with inventory management functionalities can significantly streamline these processes. Features such as real-time inventory tracking, automated reorder alerts, and barcode scanning enable laboratories to maintain optimal stock levels and avoid workflow disruptions. Furthermore, some platforms integrate with other laboratory systems, providing a consolidated view of resource utilization and enhancing overall productivity.

Additionally, laboratory administrators can explore specialized tools for managing inventory effectively. Analyzing detailed inventory management software examples can guide labs in choosing solutions tailored to their specific requirements. These tools reduce manual errors, enhance transparency, and ensure regulatory compliance—a critical requirement in many scientific industries.

Ultimately, a robust inventory management system, whether standalone or integrated into broader laboratory software, contributes not only to operational efficiency but also to cost control and improved decision-making regarding resource allocation and procurement.

Laboratories are the foundation of good science and advancing societies. Many organizations, from public to private businesses, rely on what’s going on inside these facilities. Various governments leverage the findings of their own laboratories to advance the public good and national interests. Among communities, for example, fire research laboratories do a lot to mitigate the risks of firefighters on hazardous duties. Ground best practices born by dedicated lab research, then, along with the best fire department software, are key to the success of operations while ensuring that men and women on duty stay alive.

Just as the company name generator AI offers tools that help entrepreneurs think of the most catchy business name, the laboratory software on this list are more or less evenly matched, with many offering the same core features and capabilities. That said, the best laboratory software is the platform with the features that meet your laboratory or clinic’s unique needs in terms of automated workflows, testing support, and regulatory compliance.

Most of the laboratory management platforms on this list are also highly configurable, so you can modify settings according to your lab’s requirements. However, to make sure you get an end-to-end solution for your facility, you may want to look into advanced features such as inventory management, sample management, built-in billing, and user access control. These features will help ensure that you and your laboratory staff have everything you need to optimize operations.

If you’re looking for more laboratory information management software, check out our list of the 20 best laboratory information management systems today.

Key Insights

• Laboratories play a crucial role in scientific progress, disease diagnosis, and public health, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Common challenges faced by laboratories include poor equipment management, inefficient workflows, and staffing shortages, which can significantly impact lab operations.
• To address these challenges, laboratories increasingly rely on laboratory software and laboratory information management systems (LIMS), with 47% of laboratories using at least one of these tools.
• Laboratory software like CGM LABDAQ, LabOS, and Thermo Fisher SampleManager LIMS offer various features such as automated workflows, real-time data exports, and compliance with industry regulations to improve efficiency and productivity.
• Staffing shortages in laboratories, particularly in medical labs, have been exacerbated by the pandemic but have been a long-standing issue due to increasing demand for laboratory services.
• The employment of clinical laboratory technicians and technologists is expected to grow by 11% until 2030, driven by factors such as population aging and ongoing health challenges.
• Different laboratory software solutions cater to various needs, from clinical diagnostics to chemical inventory management, offering features like automated quality control, sample tracking, and regulatory compliance.

FAQ

1. What are the main challenges faced by laboratories today? Laboratories face several challenges, including poor equipment management, inefficient workflows, and staffing shortages. These issues can hinder laboratory operations and affect the quality of work and services provided.
2. How can laboratory software help improve laboratory operations? Laboratory software helps improve operations by automating workflows, managing samples and inventory, ensuring regulatory compliance, and integrating with other systems like billing and electronic health records (EHR). These tools streamline processes, reduce manual errors, and enhance overall efficiency.
3. What is the difference between LIS and LIMS? Laboratory Information Systems (LIS) are typically used in clinical settings to process data related to individual patients, while Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) are used in group-centric settings to process data related to batches of samples. Both systems help manage data and improve laboratory workflows but serve different purposes based on the laboratory's needs.
4. Why is there a staffing shortage in laboratories? The staffing shortage in laboratories is due to several factors, including the increased demand for laboratory services driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, population aging, and long-standing recruitment challenges in the field. This shortage has been ongoing for over two decades and has been further highlighted by recent health crises.
5. What are some key features to look for in laboratory software? Key features to look for in laboratory software include automated workflows, real-time data exports, sample and inventory management, compliance with industry regulations, integration with billing and EHR systems, user access control, and built-in analytics for data-driven decision-making.
6. How is the employment outlook for laboratory technologists and technicians? The employment outlook for laboratory technologists and technicians is positive, with an expected growth rate of 11% until 2030. This growth is driven by factors such as the aging population, ongoing health challenges, and the increasing demand for laboratory services in various medical and research settings.
7. What are some of the best laboratory software solutions available today? Some of the best laboratory software solutions include CGM LABDAQ, LabOS, Thermo Fisher SampleManager LIMS, Dendi LIS, and CloudLIMS. These platforms offer a range of features to meet the diverse needs of laboratories, from automated quality control and sample management to regulatory compliance and real-time data analytics.

References:

• Aldosari, B., Gadi, H. A., Alanazi, A., & Househ, M. (2017). Surveying the influence of laboratory information system: An end-user perspective. Informatics in Medicine Unlocked, 9, 200-209. DOI 
• Astrix. (2020). 2020 LIMS market research survey report. Astrix
• Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technician. BLS
• Laboratory information system. (n.d.). LIMSWiki.
• Our World in Data. (n.d.). Total COVID-19 tests. Our World in Data
• Qian, W. U., Zhonghua, L. I. U., Xufeng, C. H. E. N., Xuwei, L. I., & Yuan, W. E. I. (2022). Research on on-site Management of Laboratories in Colleges and Universities. Experiment Science and Technology, 2022, 20(1), 1-6. UESTC
• Rodhe, R. (2022, January 22). The omicron variant is deepening severe staffing shortages in medical laboratories across the U.S. American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology