The future of the lab is digital: how a LIMS in the process industry replaces manual tasks with digital processes and a high degree of automation – finally giving lab teams time to focus on their core tasks again.
In many laboratories of the SME process industry, it’s still common practice to use paper test sheets. Day after day, numerous tests must be carried out, and the collected data recorded and analyzed. And day after day, many lab teams still reach for pen and paper.
In practice, the workflow might look something like this: when a new batch of raw materials arrives at the company, it’s the lab’s job to carry out quality assurance. A lab technician assembles a test sheet at the computer, including all relevant parameters, specifications, and limit values. The document is then printed out. Only then can they start the actual testing work. From the customer number to the test results, the technician must note down a wide range of data on the test sheet – and later transfer it to the computer, whether into an Excel spreadsheet or a digital lab system.
Manual processes cost money and increate the likelihood of errors
This approach is both laborious and time-consuming, keeping lab staff from focusing on their core responsibilities. In addition, manual laboratory processes are error-prone because the numerous manual steps increase the risk of careless mistakes. Parameters may be overlooked when creating the test sheet, and typing errors are almost inevitable when transferring data from paper to digital systems.
For companies in the process industry, this doesn’t just cost time and money. In times of skilled labor shortages, this outdated way of working also ties up highly qualified lab personnel in manual and administrative tasks. Moreover, it can lead to issues with quality assurance or prevent companies from fully meeting their documentation requirements.
So, what’s the solution? With a laboratory information management system (LIMS), companies can establish fully digital, seamless processes in their labs with a high level of automation. This leads to greater efficiency in daily workflows and frees up staff to focus more on their core responsibilities.
PART: LIMS system for companies in the process industry
With its LIMS, PART helps SMEs in the process industry digitalize and streamline their laboratory management. LIMS organizes incoming quality data from production and goods receipt, consolidating everything into a central data pool. From this data, the system generates analyses and test reports at the push of a button. Tasks that lab staff previously had to perform manually are now fully automated. Standardized workflows ensure that all relevant data is captured and documented in a traceable way, enabling SMEs to meet their documentation requirements.
What’s more, PART’s lab software for the process industry is fully integrated into the SAP ERP landscape. This gives all parties real-time access to a standardized data platform at all times. This way, PART’s LIMS facilitates seamless collaboration between the lab, production, inventory management, and management teams (discover more about the SAP integration and how LIMS can strengthen collaboration in your company here).
Greater efficiency and transparency: the benefits of LIMS at a glance
- Greater efficiency
Thanks to the digitalization and automation of lab processes, lots of manual processes can be replaced and media discontinuity eliminated. - Seamless integration into SAP ecosystem
With LIMS, companies can bid farewell to isolated solutions. - Better quality control
All measurement data is collected in the central LIMS data pool. This means that any deviations from the desired parameters are quickly identified. - Secure verifiability
- The verifiability of test processes or test steps, for example, is ensured by standardized and complete documentation.
- More transparency
All laboratory processes can be tracked seamlessly and in real time in the LIMS system. - Data-driven business
Test results and associated evaluations are accessible anytime, anywhere. This provides plant management and executives with a valid data basis for business decisions. - Future-proof
LIMS is easily scalable thanks to SAP BTP. If a company's requirements change, LIMS adapts accordingly.
Lab software for the process industry: from practice, for practice
In developing its LIMS, PART has drawn not only on its extensive experience as a partner to the process industry but also on close collaboration with seasoned lab and plant managers. PART’s LIMS is therefore a solution built from practice, for practice. It addresses real-world lab requirements with practical, user-focused features while meeting the highest technological standards.
And PART’s work doesn’t end with delivering the solution: the experienced team also supports SMEs in the process industry throughout software implementation – and beyond. Exactly how this happens depends on each company’s needs: PART advises companies on issues such as process optimization or conducts employee training. This ensures a smooth and successful start with the new tool from the very outset.
Would you like to digitalize your lab processes? Do you have questions about LIMS or would you like a customized quote? We would be happy to advise you.
