LMS Volume 33 |ssue 4 | Page 28

28  LMS  Issue 4 | 2014 LIMS Solutions LabInfo Transforms the PPECB’s Laboratory Processes T echnology Systems Integration (TSI) recently implemented their LabInfo laboratory information management system (LIMS) for the Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB). TSI has been involved in the support, development and integration of LIMS for more than 10 years. LabInfo is a f lexible and affordable solution for managing information in the laboratory with a highly modular instrument integration framework. This makes it straight forward to interface with any instrument. It operates a multi-user database running on a central server, which enables multiple users to work on the same data, thus reducing unnecessary paperwork. It uses internet technology and can be operated from any PC using a web browser. It comes with a number of functions to help laboratories conform to regulatory requirements. The PPECB is a parastatal, governed by the Agricultural Products and Standards Act, which certifies perishable products for export. A laboratory testing facility, based in Centurion, is one of its service offerings. Products such as feed and foods are tested for, inter alia, mycotoxins, moisture content and rancidity. A new service offering, due to start shortly, is testing for pesticide levels, which need to meet the legal requirements of both SA and the importing country. Dr Dharmarai Naicker, the General Manager: Laboratory at the PPECB, explains further, “Central to our value proposition is our fast turnaround time and we pride ourselves on producing results within 24 - 48 hours. To deliver on this promise and further reduce lead times, we felt the need to align with advances in technology so that we could work more effectively and also reduce our extensive manual paper trail.” Prior to installing the LIMS, the PPECB had been using Excel and Word to manage its data and generate reports, a system that was becoming increasingly cumbersome. A number of different products were investigated before TSI’s LabInfo solution was chosen. “We chose it for a number of reasons,” continues Naicker. “It’s cost-effective and, critically, it’s customisable, which meant that it could be tailored to our specific needs.” She has nothing but praise for TSI’s professionalism and service across the board. “They devised a project plan for the implementation and liaised effectively with our centralised ICT department in Cape Town to make it happen. Everything went very smoothly from receipt all the way through to implementation. TSI provided training for identified employees on how to use LabInfo. Their after-sales service is excellent too and there is a maintenance plan in place that ensures any issues will be addressed promptly, as downtime is something we cannot afford.” She summarises the benef its as follows, greater efficiency, traceability and cost-effectiveness. “Turnaround and processing times have decreased and productivity has increased. LabInfo has also ensured significant savings on paper. TSI has been very forthcoming, addressing our needs promptly and effectively. Going forward, we will continue to improve and expand the system to keep pace with changing technology.” TSI’s Neill Rosenthal confirmed that his company is delighted to have partnered with the PPECB. “We are looking forward to a long, mutually beneficial and rewarding relationship,” he says. ⚛ Technology Systems Integration (Pty) Ltd Contact: Neill Rosenthal Tel: 011-792-1094 Email: [email protected] A Nu Lab Management Solution W aters® Corporation has introduced the NuGenesis Lab Management System, an alternative to a traditional laboratory information management system (LIMS) that enables deeper insight into scientific challenges, accelerated decision-making, better business results and compliance with government regulations. The NuGenesis System offers high impact f unctiona lit y w ith a high degree of flexibility. New advances include SampleShare, an optional, secure web client for sample submissions and results management; Stability, a complete stability protocol management and testing solution to facilitate a consistent regimented workflow across lab operations; Connectors, a bi-directional link between lab systems and business applications and Paradigm™ Scientific Search. This management system is a user-centric platform that encompasses a scientific data management system, electronic laboratory notebook and laboratory execution system. “The NuGenesis Lab Manage- ment System is more comprehensive than anything in its class, combining new improvements w it h key e x ist ing capabilities,” said  Garrett Mullen, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Laboratory Management Informatics at  Waters (USA). “It readily adapts to existing informatics environments, smoothly [