A Laboratory Execution System, or LES, is a supplemental module that can be utilized to expand the capabilities of an existing LabVantage LIMS. LES has the capability to guide laboratory analysts through the testing execution and creates a cohesive location for data to be recorded electronically. Below we’ll take a deeper look at how LES can be a valuable addition to a laboratory’s LabVantage LIMS.     

Benefits of a LES for LabVantage LIMS

Guided Execution

One of the most noticeable characteristics of LES is the guided execution of an assay. Just like a recipe, the LES worksheet guides a laboratory analyst on the preparation, reagents, equipment, and testing steps for an assay. There are multiple factors that come together to create the worksheet that fosters guided execution. 

• Security Settings: Customizable security settings prevent an analyst from being able to edit the instructions on the worksheet and add or delete sections. Steps can be configured for mandatory completion before the worksheet can be sent for review.  
• Comprehensive Data Recording: LES worksheets are all-encompassing and can be set up with space to record many aspects of the testing process like instruments and reagents used, completion of steps, data such as temperatures and incubation times, result entry, and e-signature of the worksheet, all from the same webpage. Worksheets are straightforward to navigate, and testing analysts can generate an LES worksheet for testing execution with a simple click of a button. 
• Master Data Setup: Worksheet information is set up as master data, usually by a LIMS Administrator or similar role, and goes through a validation process to confirm that master data is set up accurately. The amount of information needed to properly guide an analyst through execution of the assay can be as detailed as needed. LES can be set up for sample testing, both individual test methods and batched testing (AQC Methods). It can also be utilized to capture data on the completion of ancillary laboratory processes, such as mixed reagent preparation and completion of instrument certifications (calibrations, maintenance, instrument checks).
• Reduction of Errors: Guided execution of an assay via LES inherently leads to a reduction in errors attributed to missed steps, incorrectly performed steps, using expired or unqualified reagents, and leveraging instruments with invalid certifications – all to to maintain quality with each assay run. Calculations can be set up in the master data to automatically perform mathematical analysis of the data entered. Specification master data is set up with upper and lower limits and even allows alert levels. Dynamic visual cues – such as result text turning specific colors to indicate when it falls in-spec, out-of-spec, or within alert levels – assist the analyst and reviewer in quickly recognizing when results may require investigation. Reagent lots aren’t available for selection if expired, depleted, or inactive. Instruments are also unavailable for selection if they’ve not had the appropriate certifications completed or are tagged out for repair. The combination of all these capabilities creates a workflow that supports laboratory analysts in the common goal of delivering quality data. 

Process Efficiency

• Seamless Integration: A key characteristic of LES is that it’s seamlessly integrated within the LIMS by the addition of the LES Module. LES is an added layer of functionality that can be applied to existing master data to support the testing process by linking transactional data recorded within the LES, making result entry more time efficient and decreasing the risk of mistake. This is accomplished by eliminating the need for an analyst to navigate between multiple tramstops and webpages during analysis and result entry. 
• Paperless Record: Another fundamental benefit of utilizing LES is the ability to move toward a paperless process. It creates an electronic central location for testing documentation, reagent preparation, and instrument certification records to be housed, with the ability to easily search and locate LES worksheets within the system. Additionally, paperless LES worksheets remove the risk of accidental damage to laboratory forms, like spilled reagents, leaving them illegible, or misplacing paper forms and logs. Going paperless is a positive contribution to company sustainability by decreasing the amount of paper used in the lab.
• Efficiency in Laboratory Processes: The LES can electronically review the worksheet in the system, as well. The testing analyst can submit the worksheet for review with the simple click of a button. Extra time and action required to download controlled copies of the forms, manually submit the paper form to the reviewer(s), and scan the completed form into the document management system are now obsolete. In today’s laboratories, where efficiency is necessary, saving time and resources by utilizing an LES can return value to the lab. During a time when remote work is still common, supervisors can review data and worksheets from their home office or a work office located across the building as soon as it’s submitted for review. 

Implementing LES  

Are you thinking about how laboratory processes can be improved in your company, but unsure where to start? Are you considering how your laboratory might be able to garner the benefits that come from implementing LES? Our experienced team at Clarkston Consulting can provide guidance and help develop an individualized plan that leads to success for your laboratory.