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Streamlining Chemical Inventory Reporting for Fire Safety

Managing chemical inventory can be a daunting task for laboratories of all sizes.

From tracking quantities toward building fire codes and MAQ limits to staying on top of regulatory reporting requirements, the complexities can quickly overwhelm even the most organized teams.

But with the advent of chemical inventory reporting solutions like SciSure for Health & Safety (formerly SciShield), labs are experiencing a revolution in efficiency, organization, and safety.

Now we will explore the benefits of accurate, real-time reporting tied to your chemical inventory and dive into how these systems are transforming chemical inventory reporting, one click at a time:

Stay organized and eliminate storage chaos by digitizing your chemical inventory with container level tracking in real-time.

Efficiency

Chemical inventory reporting solutions make your team more efficient by reducing the time spent on common tasks by up to 80% — meaning that a task that normally takes you an afternoon to complete will take just a few minutes.

Instead of manually calculating totals toward MAQ limits, for instance, chemical inventory reporting software can do this for you. Not only does this save you time, it also reduces the chance of human errors.

What’s more, chemical inventory reporting software will make managing your chemical inventory easier. You can track containers, view storage recommendations and expiration dates, and complete audits on the go from any mobile device. This frees up scientists' time to focus their core work like applying for grants and conducting research while keeping your labs safe and compliant.

Organization

Chemical inventory reporting software provides a centralized platform for managing your chemical inventory data. Users can easily input, store, and update information about the chemicals they have on-site, including details like quantities, locations, and expiration dates.

The best chemical inventory solutions don’t stop there, though. They also offer real-time monitoring capabilities, allowing you to track changes in your chemical inventory as they occur. This helps you stay up-to-date with your reporting obligations and proactively manage chemical hazards.

Hazard Identification

With potentially hundreds of chemicals on hand, identifying the hazard profile of each one is a time-consuming task. But with a chemical inventory reporting software, it doesn't have to be.

Your software should allow you to instantly see the hazards associated with any chemical in your inventory. You don’t have to go searching for an SDS online or in a binder because that information is readily available at your fingertips.

Additionally, chemical inventory reporting software should give you a “big picture” view of chemicals and high-hazard materials in your labs. Which chemicals count toward your flammable solvents limit? How many peroxide formers are set to expire by the end of this month? With chemical inventory reporting software, these questions are easy to answer.

Accurate Reporting

With effective chemical inventory software, there’s no need for Excel spreadsheets full of complicated formulas and calculations. By pulling relevant data from the centralized database, chemical inventory reporting software automates the process of generating regulatory reports, such as Tier II/Right-to-Know (RTK) reports, streamlining reporting processes, meaning you won’t be scrambling to get it done before the deadline.

As we mentioned above, one of the key features of chemical inventory software is its ability to track containers in real-time. This means that as changes are made to the chemical inventory, such as additions, deletions, or updates, the software automatically reflects these changes in your regulatory reports. This real-time synchronization ensures that reports are always up-to-date and accurate.

Compliance

Chemical reporting software empowers labs to efficiently manage their chemical inventory, enhancing accuracy and streamlining reporting – achieving compliance with fire codes and MAQs is simplified.

As fire code regulations evolve chemical inventory software will help you to maintain compliance. By storing all your chemical data in a single place, you'll have instant access to the information you need to adapt to changes. You'll never have to worry about the unknown of fire code compliance and MAQs because you can easily compare your current inventory with the new regulations.

Scalability

With more time to focus on research and funding opportunities thanks to your chemical inventory software, you might find your lab operations growing. The good news is that a robust software system like SciSure will scale with you as you grow.

As your operations expand, SciSure can accommodate increasing amounts of chemical inventory data and support additional users without sacrificing accuracy or efficiency. You can even manage permissions for different users or groups based on their job description (e.g., lab member, PI, etc.). This ensures that individuals throughout your organization are only able to view or change information that is relevant to their role.

Safety

At the end of the day, chemical inventory software makes your labs safer by helping you manage hazardous materials more effectively. It enables precise tracking of chemicals throughout their lifecycle, from purchase to disposal, so you can proactively address fire hazards such as expired chemicals or incompatible storage.

And, in the event of a fire, chemical inventory software is — quite literally — a lifesaver. Having access to an accurate chemical inventory, complete with the quantities and locations of chemicals, enables emergency responders to quickly assess the situation, identify potential hazards, and take appropriate measures to protect personnel and property.

Take control of your chemical inventory

Chemical inventory software solves the headache of fire code compliance and regulatory reporting by giving you control over your chemical inventory once and for all, organized and in compliance — with regulatory reporting in real-time, in just a few clicks. Next, learn about the key features to look for in chemical inventory software.

The power of accurate, real-time chemical reporting is the key to mitigating risks and enhancing fire safety.

Your takeaway

With the right software solution, you can save hours and days of complex report pulling for your regulatory reporting, MAQ's, TierII/RTK, and Fire Code compliance.

‍BOSTON, MA (April 2, 2025) – GA International, a global leader in laboratory identification solutions, under its LabTAG brand, announced today that its DYMO® LabelWriter™ 5-Series Printing Kits are now compatible with SciSure (formerly eLabNext)—an intuitive and flexible system for collecting, managing, and analyzing laboratory information. The integration is available in the eLabMarketplace through an Add-on, and provides researchers with a reliable, precise, and user-friendly solution for labeling in critical laboratory workflows.

“We’re excited to expand our partnership with SciSure by introducing this Dymo® LabelWriter™ 550 Add-On,” comments George Ambartsoumian, Founder and CEO of GA International. “This tool allows researchers to print labels directly from the eLabNext interface, making sample identification faster, easier, and more reliable. It’s another step forward in our shared mission to streamline lab workflows and improve sample and data management in laboratories.” 

The Add-on allows users access to pre-designed label templates tailored for LabTAG’s specialized DYMO-Branded CryoSTUCK® Labels directly within SciSure. These templates are optimized for the Dymo® LabelWriter™ 5-series printers, ensuring perfect formatting, dimensions, and layout alignment. This eliminates the need for manual adjustments and enables effortless label printing in just a few clicks. By combining the affordability of the Dymo® LabelWriter™5-Series (550, 550 Turbo, and 5XL) with LabTAG's durable cryogenic labels, the Add-on also offers a cost-effective labeling solution, particularly beneficial for labs working on a tight budget.

“We jump on every opportunity to enhance our platform by integrating tools that simplify workflows, collaborating with companies that share our passion for sample and data management, and streamlining lab operations for our users,” says Zareh Zurabyan, VP of Commercial, Americas. “This recent collaboration with LabTAG is a win for everyone and ensures that labs can focus on their research with confidence, knowing their labeling needs are met with innovative and reliable technology.” 

To learn more about SciSure and how to connect with LabTAG’s Dymo® LabelWriter™ 550 Printer Add-on, visit the Marketplace.

About LabTAG

GA International has over 25 years of experience as a leading manufacturer of specialty labels, supplying laboratory identification solutions to biomedical research labs, biobanks, hospitals, and other healthcare institutions. Since its inception, GA International has become a worldwide leader in cryogenic and chemical-resistant labels, strongly dedicated to R&D and customer service. 

For more information about GA International, please visit www.labtag.com

Press contacts

For Media & Communication Inquiries‍

Ishan Wadi, Marketing Leader
ishan.wadi@ga-international.com

For Technical Inquiries Related to the Add-On

Alexandre Beaudoin Gagne, IT Director
alexandre.beaudoin@ga-international.com

‍

On May 6, 2025, a significant shift will take place in the regulatory environment with the implementation of the new United States Government Policy for Oversight of Dual Use Research of Concern (DURC) and Pathogens with Enhanced Pandemic Potential (PEPP). Dual use research refers to studies that, although intended for beneficial purposes, may also pose risks if misused or if the knowledge gained could be exploited for harmful purposes. Enhanced pandemic potential refers to research involving pathogens that could potentially lead to widespread outbreaks.

This enhanced DURC/PEPP Policy expands the scope of research previously overseen by the 2012 Federal DURC, the 2014 Institutional DURC, and the 2017 P3CO Framework policies and organizes research into Category 1: involving dual use research of concern (DURC), and Category 2: involving pathogens with enhanced pandemic potential (PEPP).

This policy comes in the wake of heightened global concerns about biosecurity and the potential misuse of research, particularly in light of recent events that have underscored the need for stringent safety and oversight measures. It aims to ensure that sensitive research does not pose risks to public health and national security while fostering responsible scientific innovation.

All research institutions that receive funding from federal agencies are obligated to fully follow this Policy as a condition of their funding. According to section 5.6 of the Policy, “failure to follow the research oversight framework under this Policy may result in suspension, limitation, or termination of federal funding and loss of future federal funding opportunities for the research proposal and for other life sciences research at the research institution, as imposed by the federal funding agency.”

Breaking Down the New Policy Requirements

Under the new policy, research entities involved in DURC or PEPP must adhere to several key requirements:

1. Risk Assessment: Institutions must conduct thorough risk assessments for proposed research to identify any potential dual-use implications. This will involve evaluating how results can be used or misused and detailing necessary mitigation strategies.
2. Review Processes: The research institution, through an IRE (sometimes as a component of an IBC), reviews the PI’s initial assessment and confirms whether proposed or ongoing research is within the scope of Category 1 or Category 2 research
3. Training and Compliance: Institutions must ensure that all personnel involved in relevant research are adequately trained on the ethical, legal, and safety concerns associated with DURC and PEPP. A risk mitigation plan must be drafted if research falls under Category 1 or Category 2.
4. Transparency and Reporting: Research entities will be required to maintain transparent records and report any incidents or concerns related to misuse or safety violations promptly to relevant oversight bodies.

Concerns for Research Entities

This new oversight policy is understandably causing concerns among research entities due to fear of increased administrative burdens for researchers and reviewers, as well as potential for delays as institutions implement the new policy. The NIH has released a Notice for their implementation of the Policy for all NIH-funded research, including grants and cooperative agreements; with other funding agency implementation plans yet to be published.

How SciSure Can Help

The responsibility of assessing whether or not research falls under the scope of Category 1 and Category 2 research, as defined in the new USG Policy, falls on Principal Investigators and Researchers named in the application for which federal funding is received or proposed, at the proposal stage and continuously throughout the research lifecycle.

While the onus is on the PI to make these assessments, the DURC/PEPP Policy posits that the research institution is responsible for “ensuring that PIs are aware of and executing this responsibility appropriately.” One key approach to achieving this is by arming researchers with the tools to make compliance faster and easier.

With SciSure’s new DURC/PEPP Assessment in the Biosafety Management Module, researchers may easily self-assess whether research falls under Category 1 and/or Category 2 research. This speeds up the assessment cycle for Institutional Review Entity (IRE) and Institutional Contact for Dual Use Research (ICDUR).

Learn More

Interested in learning more about SciSure’s Biosafety Management Module or getting a DURC/PEPP Assessment? Schedule a personal consultation with one of our experts!

When you’re reviewing different chemical inventory systems, you need to be able to spot the bad ones quickly.

Not knowing which red flags signal potential problems can lead to a lot of wasted time, money, and energy. Much like buying a car, if you're not careful, you could end up with a lemon.

To help you weed out the wrong system (and to make sure you end up with a good one), here are four must-check warning signs to look for when you're purchasing chemical inventory software.

Chemical Inventory System Red Flags

Chemical inventory systems come in a wide range of sizes, specialties, and services. From free systems that only ask for an email, to home-brewed solutions using spreadsheets, to high-powered systems capable of handling multinational inventories and performing reports.

So what is the most important thing about a chemical inventory system? It meets your needs. An hour or two of thought about what your organization needs to accomplish with a chemical inventory system can save you ten times as much time (or more) in the future.

1. It’s a Glorified Excel Spreadsheet

Every chemical inventory system allows you to store chemical names and quantities and do a simple lookup. But if that's all it can do, then it's just a fancy (and expensive!) version of Excel.

The point of chemical inventory software isn't solely to store information, it's to help you use that information to increase lab safety, reduce risk, and lower costs. That includes monitoring purchases, overseeing chemical use and access, tracking chemicals by hazard class, ensuring appropriate disposal, and creating accurate regulatory reports (just to name a few).

To perform those tasks, your software must include a robust chemical database. An effective chemical database provides all the chemical information you rely on — chemical identity, properties, known regulatory implications, fire code information — right within the system.

It should also include some form of data validation. Unlike spreadsheets, data validation helps prevent errors or duplicate entries from being entered into the system and ensures your system is operating from an accurate, single source of truth.

Finally, your chemical inventory software should provide a clean user interface and intuitive workflows that allow researchers and inventory specialists to get in, get out, and get back to their work in the shortest time possible. Otherwise, your team will likely avoid using the system. If the interface feels clunky, more often than not, that clunkiness will also show up in the way your data is organized.

2. Regulatory Report Constraints

No brainer, right? A chemical inventory system that can't generate regulatory reports (not just raw data) isn't worth the price. Without the value-add of one-click report generation, your team will still be stuck with the burden of compiling data by hand, reducing bandwidth and increasing the likelihood of human error.

If your system isn’t giving you a big leg up in terms of efficiency, then you’re missing out on a huge portion of the benefits you should be receiving.

To avoid investing in the wrong software, spend time developing a list of which reports you’ll need to create before you approach a potential vendor. These may include:

• EPCRA Tier II/Right-to-Know
• State and local reports (CERS, NYC RTK)
• Fire and building code reports
• And many more...

Each of these reports requires specific information based on context. Sometimes a system cannot support the management of non-chemical data, such as control areas or buildings. Other times, the system can provide the data you need, but in the wrong units. The last thing you want to deal with right before a deadline are manual measurement conversions from kilograms and liters to pounds and gallons (don’t get us started on gases…).

If the software does not meet your reporting needs, don’t waste your resources.

3. No Implementation Support

Even top-notch chemical inventory software can end up costing you time and money if it's not used to its full potential. Effective software comes from an effective business that provides support and a tested, trusted approach to implementation. It might seem obvious, but many buyers focus too heavily on features and overlook the headaches that come with a poor implementation process.

Instead, be sure to review the vendor's implementation services and come prepared to ask for details, like:

• How will data initially be imported into the system, and who will be responsible for importing it?
• Is there a clear timeline for implementation with major milestones so that your project stays on track?
• Does the vendor's team have a lot of experience with successful software implementations?

And perhaps most importantly:

• Do they make you feel comfortable reaching out for help?

Any vendor who doesn't have a formal implementation plan or avoids giving a clear answer should go straight to the "NO" pile — a failed implementation presents too much risk for monetary loss and time spent without sufficient coverage.

4. The System isn’t Built for Labs

It's hard to overstate the importance of finding a system that is specifically designed for lab settings. You need a chemical inventory system built by scientists, for scientists.

Think about it: You wouldn’t buy a Ferrari to pull a boat trailer, would you? It might be a great car for a corporate executive, but it would be a terrible choice for your needs — one use later, and you might be looking at a broken car, a huge bill for repairs, and a boat trailer that’s still right there in the same place it started.

Similarly, it doesn’t make sense for organizations to purchase a chemical inventory system that’s designed for an industrial setting. What works well for a plastics manufacturer could end up being near-useless in a research setting.

While both organizations need chemical inventory systems, their workflows, regulatory requirements, reporting needs, and even the types of users are much different, and their systems should reflect and support that.

One quick litmus test to determine whether a system was built specifically for labs is to look at the wording on their website. Steer clear of solutions that are marketed as “suitable for all industries” or employ wording like “sublocation 1” that feels foreign to your lab environment.

Another tip-off: If you notice a client list or testimonial page filled with industrial companies, that system may not be able to meet the specific needs of your research laboratory environment.

If you still aren’t sure, try floating a few example use cases and see how the vendor responds. You’ll know quickly whether the vendor understands your challenges and can help solve your problems.

Fool-Proof Your Software Shopping

Just like screening general EHS software, screening chemical inventory systems can be a difficult and time-consuming process — unless you know what to look for.

Here are a few things to remember so you don’t get stuck with a lemon:

• Chemical inventory software should do more than just store information like a spreadsheet — it should help you use that information to improve safety and lower costs.
• The best-fit chemical inventory software is designed specifically for lab settings and the types of reports and tasks they need to do.
• Don’t forget to look beyond the software itself to the vendor’s team that will be your partner and guide before, during, and after setup.

SciSure’s Chemical Inventory Software was built by scientists, for scientists. Built with a proprietary chemical database software originally developed by Stanford University, ChemTracker empowers EHS professionals by simplifying your chemical inventory management to reduce operating costs, streamline internal processes, and enhance site safety. Leverage our scalable SaaS solution to meet your unique laboratory needs.

If you'd like to learn more about how to build a better chemical inventory system, schedule a demo today!

Like an unannounced visit from your in-laws, chemical regulators usually show up when you’re least prepared and often throw your whole operation into a panic.

One of the best ways to be prepared for a chemical regulatory inspection is to perform regular internal audits of your chemical inventory and safety management. Internal audits can help your team identify gaps in your processes, procedures, and inventory before they get flagged (and possibly fined) by an outside regulator. Internal audits can also uncover hazards that could lead to accidents or injuries. What's more, they can help your organization operate with greater efficiency on a day-to-day basis.

So which issues should you look for during an internal chemical audit? Each organization will look a little different depending on the types of research performed and the chemicals on site. However, there are a few common problems that pop up frequently. To help you on your next internal audit, we’ve compiled a list of five common issues to watch for.

5 Common Issues to Look for During an Internal Audit

1. Incompatible chemicals stored together
2. Expired peroxide formers
3. Flammables stored in a regular fridge or freezer
4. Chemical inventory is out of date
5. Chemicals from other groups or spaces found

1. Incompatible Chemicals Stored Together

Chances are you’ve been on an inspection and seen this before: acids stored with bases. Or oxidizers stored with flammable solvents. Storing incompatible chemicals together can lead to an unintended reaction such as a fire, explosion, or the production of hazardous gasses.

Fortunately, internal audits can help identify storage issues before problems occur. For example, flags for the most common issues — such as acids and bases stored together — may be easy enough to spot that you can have multiple different inspectors keep an eye out for them. This will greatly reduce the potential for an accident without creating more work for your team.

There are also some controls you can implement to prevent these situations from happening in the first place. It starts with educating your user base on proper storage procedures. Make sure researchers know how to identify problematic chemical pairs, how to properly store chemicals, as well as what to do if they find chemicals stored incorrectly. Appointing a point person in each group can help ensure that these procedures are being followed and provide some much-needed accountability. Add to that a good chemical inventory system that gives you visibility into your chemical inventory, and you’ll be well-positioned to pass your next compliance inspection.

2. Expired Peroxide Formers

Peroxide formers are a common class of chemicals in many research spaces. They encompass a broad range of substances including ethers, acetals, and aldehydes. While peroxide formers are stable under normal conditions, expired peroxide formers can degrade and become unstable explosive materials. Like any hazardous chemical, expired peroxide formers need to be identified and disposed of properly. This includes peroxide formers that are opened without “date opened” marked on the bottle.

As we said before, the hallmark of an effective chemical safety management program is education. Ensure that everyone who uses peroxide formers (or works in a lab where they are used) has been trained on the correct procedures for adding dates, checking dates, and disposing of expired chemicals.

A robust chemical inventory system helps you not only locate peroxide formers, but also stores information about containers and users, manages training, and sends reminders about proper handling procedures. Taking a holistic approach to peroxide former safety will lead to much more effective chemical safety management initiatives.

3. Flammables Stored in a Regular Fridge or Freezer

Another common — and dangerous — issue frequently seen in research spaces is flammable substances, such as ether, stored in a conventional fridge or freezer instead of an explosion-proof one. Sometimes, this happens because a particular lab doesn’t have an explosion-proof fridge or freezer. Other times, it’s an oversight, a lack of knowledge, or simple complacency (“This chemical doesn’t really need to be stored in that fridge down the hall, does it?”).

It’s worth adding this item to your regular inspection checklist so it doesn’t get overlooked. Additionally, you can assign self-inspections to members of a group to specifically check for this issue. Making this the lab personnel’s responsibility improves awareness and accountability.

Your equipment tracking system should help you quickly locate labs that don’t have an explosion-proof fridge or freezer, and you can cross-reference that with the information from your chemical inventory system to ID the labs that also appear to have explosive substances that should be refrigerated.

When you inspect these labs, you can quickly double-check the regular fridge or freezer to make sure there aren’t any flammables stored improperly and talk to the lab members to see if there is anything you can do to help them store their chemicals safely.

4. Out-of-Date Chemical Inventory

An out-of-date chemical inventory is unsurprisingly a particularly common problem. Whatever the reason, if your internal audits don’t catch these instances, it can lead to a serious violation or fine from a regulator depending on the infraction.

As with most things, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In the same way that it’s much easier to keep your house clean if you put your dishes in the dishwasher after every meal instead of letting them pile up, it’ll be much easier to keep your chemical inventory tidy if you have routine workflows for entering and updating information.

To do that, you’ll need to invest in a chemical inventory system that can not only accurately quantify your inventory but also enable scientists and inventory specialists to access, manage, and share information. When it comes to chemical inventory, the volume of work is simply too large to rely on hacked-together systems that aren’t carrying a great deal of the administrative burden for you.

5. Chemicals from Other Groups Found

In fast-paced research environments, it’s not unusual for containers from one group to end up in another. Researchers may borrow chemicals and forget to return them to their original shelf or storage location. At best, containers get misplaced and people waste time looking for what they need. At worst, hazardous materials end up unaccounted for or “temporarily” stored in a dangerous location.

Each chemical should have a designated storage area and be returned there after use. Of course, that’s easier said than done. Regular reminders can not only help researchers remember to put things back, but they can also help build better habits. By automating these reminders with chemical inventory software, you can dramatically improve compliance.

Regular internal audits can also help to uncover chemicals that are out of place. However, taking inventory with a pen and clipboard can be a time-consuming exercise — especially if you have hundreds or thousands of containers. Using chemical inventory software along with barcoding or RFID speeds up the process, making the auditing process a much more sustainable one.

Additionally, this is another great place to leverage self-inspections, as the personnel in research spaces might have an easier time recognizing when that tub of salts they borrowed or lent out last week wasn’t returned.

Final thoughts

Internal audits are a valuable tool to identify common issues such as incompatible chemical storage, expired or missing chemicals, and out-of-date inventory. Today, chemical inventory management technology has streamlined and improved the internal audit process. What once took weeks now can be completed in a single day, and you can reap the rewards of a safer, more organized research environment.

SciSure’s Chemical Inventory System was built by scientists, for scientists. Built with a proprietary chemical database originally developed by Stanford University, ChemTracker empowers EHS professionals by simplifying your chemical safety management to increase accuracy, streamline internal processes, and ultimately enhance site safety.

Leverage our scalable SaaS solution to meet your unique laboratory needs. Talk with a SciSure advisor today!

Today, protocols.io, a platform that enables academic and industry researchers to record and share up-to-date methods for research, announced that, under SciSure (formerly eLabNext) leadership, its platform is now available for integration with SciSure, an intuitive and flexible system for collecting, managing, and analyzing laboratory information. The seamless connections between protocols.io and the DLP enable users to better understand what protocol was used, by whom, on which samples, and when. This comprehensive digital documentation and trackability help ensure experimental reproducibility in the scientific research fields.

“Scientific research faces challenges with experimental reproducibility, and having tools to combat them is a top priority,” says Zareh Zurabyan, (formerly) Head of eLabNext, Americas.

“Integrating the protocols.io platform with SciSure puts reproducible protocols at each user's fingertips, allowing researchers to conduct more reproducible and trustworthy science. We are excited to further this goal with the protocols.io team.”

With the integration of the protocols.io add-on, SciSure users can access comprehensive, step-by-step protocols directly from their protocols.io account. In addition, the integration allows users to search a library of private and public protocols, which can be easily imported into their DLP.

“From our first meeting with SciSure to discuss integration options, it was clear that we share the same mission and approach to serving the research community,” explains Lenny Teytelman, Founder and President at protocols.io. “As we strive to encourage and support collaboration among researchers, it is essential that the tool makers collaborate as well. Working with the eLabNext team is a pleasure!” 

To learn more about SciSure and how to connect with the protocols.io add-on, visit the Marketplace.

About protocols.io

Protocols.io is a secure platform for developing and sharing reproducible methods. The platform enables scientists to make, exchange, improve, and discuss protocols. It was conceived in 2012 by geneticist Lenny Teytelman, and computer scientists Alexei Stoliartchouk and Irinia Makkaveeva to facilitate science communication and rapid sharing of knowledge. The protocols.io platform enables academic and industry researchers to record and share detailed up-to-date methods for research. It is part of Springer Nature and is headquartered in Berkeley, CA. 

Press contact 

Name: Emma Ganley, Director of Strategic Initiatives
Email: emma@protocols.io
Website: https://www.protocols.io/

Data integrity is a critical pillar of scientific research. It forms the foundation for credible, trustworthy results, ensuring that findings are valid and reproducible. Without it, the scientific process falters, and breakthroughs lose their impact. Yet, maintaining data integrity is far from easy. Labs today face a host of challenges, from human errors during manual data entry and fragmented systems to the constant evolution of complex regulatory requirements.

So, how can labs rise to these challenges and ensure their data remains accurate and reliable? 

In this blog, we will highlight:

• What is data integrity?
• Common threats to lab data integrity
• The role of digital tools in safeguarding data integrity
• How SciSure safeguards data integrity
• Practical tips for maximizing data integrity in your lab 

Read on as we dive into the critical importance of data integrity, uncover the common risks that jeopardize it, and highlight how innovative digital tools, like SciSure, can revolutionize data management for researchers and lab managers. With the right tools and strategies, labs can not only protect their data but also streamline operations and unlock new potential for groundbreaking discoveries.

What is data integrity?

Data integrity refers to the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of data throughout its lifecycle. It ensures that information remains unaltered and trustworthy from creation to storage and beyond. The core components of data integrity include:

• Accuracy: Data must reflect the true values or results it represents without errors or discrepancies.
• Consistency: Information should remain coherent and uniform across different systems, workflows, and datasets.
• Completeness: No critical information should be missing, ensuring a full and accurate picture of lab activities.

Why does data integrity matter?

• Research integrity: Data integrity underpins the credibility and reproducibility of research findings, a cornerstone of scientific progress.
• Regulatory compliance: Many lab operations require strict adherence to standards like EU Good Laboratory Practice, FDA 21 CFR Part 11, and ISO/IEC 27001, all of which hinge on robust data integrity practices.
• Operational efficiency: Consistent and accurate data streamline workflows, improve collaboration, and reduce errors, saving time and resources.

Common threats to lab data integrity 

Despite its importance, data integrity is often at risk due to a variety of factors. Understanding these challenges is the first step toward mitigating them:

• Manual data entry errors
  Handwritten notes and manual transcription are prone to mistakes, leading to inaccuracies in records and experimental outcomes. This can result in wasted resources and compromised results.
• Data fragmentation
  Disconnected systems or siloed datasets make it difficult to maintain consistent, accessible, and reliable information. Researchers may struggle to retrieve critical data quickly, delaying projects.
• Unauthorized access
  Without proper access controls, sensitive data is vulnerable to unauthorized modifications, compromising its integrity and leading to potential data misuse.
• Outdated systems
  Legacy software and paper-based methods lack the precision, security, and scalability needed for modern lab operations. These systems also make it harder to adapt to new regulatory or technological requirements.
• Compliance risks
  Manual processes and disparate systems make it challenging to meet regulatory standards, increasing the risk of non-conformities and penalties. Inconsistent documentation can exacerbate these risks.
• Data migration challenges
  Transferring historical data from legacy systems into modern platforms must be handled carefully. This process requires meticulous planning and execution.
• Time-consuming audits
  Preparing for audits without centralized data systems is labor-intensive and increases the likelihood of oversight or errors. This can lead to delays in regulatory approval processes.

These challenges underline the necessity for a modern solution that can streamline operations while reinforcing robust data management practices.

The role of digital tools in safeguarding data integrity

Digital solutions, from Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs), to Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and beyond, are transforming how laboratories manage and interact with data, providing significant advantages that address common data integrity risks. 

These benefits include:

Centralization of data 

By consolidating all lab data within a single, unified platform, digital solutions eliminate data silos and ensure coherence across the board. This reduces the risk of fragmentation, enabling lab teams to access, analyze, and share consistent, reliable information from one central source.

Automation and precision 

Automated workflows, data logging, and error-checking mechanisms reduce the likelihood of human error, a common issue in manual processes. These systems ensure accurate and consistent data capture, improving the reliability of results and freeing up time for lab personnel to focus on higher-value tasks.

Real-time data logging and tracking 

Digital tools enable labs to monitor data in real time, ensuring that the most current and accurate datasets are always available. This is particularly useful for labs that need to make time-sensitive decisions, as it provides immediate visibility into ongoing processes and results.

Access control and security 

Robust features such as role-based access, advanced encryption, and detailed audit trails provide an extra layer of security to protect sensitive information. By restricting access to authorized personnel and tracking every action, these tools minimize the risk of data breaches and unauthorized modifications.

Audit readiness 

Preparing for audits and inspections becomes much easier with digital platforms. Built-in audit trails automatically log activities, creating a transparent and easily accessible record of all data interactions. This ensures compliance with regulatory standards, saving labs time and effort during inspections or validations.

By embracing digital solutions, labs can not only reduce risks but also improve efficiency, accuracy, and overall data management, ultimately leading to better outcomes and streamlined operations.

How SciSure safeguards data integrity

SciSure is designed to address the unique challenges labs face in maintaining data integrity. Its comprehensive features ensure accurate, secure, and compliant data management. By combining the functionality of ELNs, LIMS, inventory management software and more into a single platform, it eliminates the fragmentation and inefficiencies often seen with separate systems.

By choosing SciSure, labs can achieve unparalleled efficiency and security, safeguarding their most valuable resource—their data.

Talk to one of our Lab Digitization Specialists—scientists who understand your needs—to guide you through your lab's digital transformation.

Practical tips for maximizing data integrity in your lab

Implementing data integrity practices in your lab doesn't have to be overwhelming. By focusing on clear, actionable steps, you can create a more efficient and reliable data management system that benefits both your team and your research outcomes. Here are 5 practical tips to get you started: 

1. Evaluate current practices
   Start by assessing your existing data management systems and workflows. Look for inefficiencies, risks of data loss, or areas where human error is more likely to occur. This evaluation will help you identify the most critical areas that need improvement and provide a foundation for implementing better practices. 

2. Digitize your operations
   Transitioning from paper-based systems to digital tools is one of the best ways to ensure consistency, accuracy, and ease of access. Digital platforms reduce the risk of misplaced data, ensure standardization, and often come with built-in features to enhance security and compliance. Consider adopting solutions that integrate seamlessly into your workflows. 

3. Train your team
   Proper training is essential to maintain data integrity. Make sure all team members understand the importance of accurate data handling and are familiar with the tools and systems in place. Regular training sessions can also address updates to protocols or software, ensuring everyone stays aligned with best practices.

4. Leverage vendor support
   Utilize the resources offered by your digital platform vendors. Platforms like SciSure often provide onboarding, training, and technical support to help labs implement their systems effectively. Take advantage of these services to ensure a smooth transition to new tools and to help your team maximize their potential. 

5. Monitor and audit regularly
   Routine monitoring and audits are key to ensuring long-term compliance and high-quality data management. Establish a schedule for reviewing your systems and processes and address any gaps or issues that arise. Regular audits not only improve accountability but also create opportunities to refine and optimize your workflows over time. 

Research integrity is non-negotiable

Data integrity is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s a foundation for credible and impactful science. It ensures the accuracy of research, streamlines compliance, and facilitates collaboration. If you’re ready to take research integrity in your lab to the next level, consider partnering with SciSure. Our platform is engineered to help labs like yours achieve exceptional standards in data management and operational efficiency.

Take the next step in safeguarding your lab data. Schedule a free demo!

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When you begin the process of searching for chemical inventory management software, it can be difficult to distinguish between all the different options — many of which may seem similar on the surface.

You might see several systems that offer similar features, such as container tracking, safety data sheets, and reporting. One thing you’ll see no matter what is vendors claiming their system is “the best”.

But how do you know that the software you're considering will be the best fit for your organization specifically? At SciSure, we want you to find the right software for your needs — whether that means working with us or not.

In this article, we'll walk you through some key indicators that you've found the right software for your organization so you can confidently recommend the best solution to your team.

Signs You Found the Right Software for Chemical Inventory Management:

1. The software tracks key data in a report-forward database structure (Think MAQ's & CFATS Reports)
2. It’s easy to imagine using the software in your everyday tasks
3. The workflows available can seamlessly scale
4. Searching and filtering tools are available to easily answer inventory questions
5. Maintaining your inventory feels sustainable
6. The software can connect to systems that fulfill other safety needs

1. The software tracks key data in a report-forward database structure

Chemical reporting is one of the most time-consuming and expensive aspects of chemical inventory management. So, it makes sense that reporting should be one of the first things you look for when evaluating a prospective software system.

When you need to create a report, the last thing you want is scattered or incomplete data. Reporting should be integrated with your chemical inventory and not exist in a separate sphere. Any time your team needs to produce a report, they should have the information they need at their fingertips.

Reporting capabilities can differ widely between systems, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully. When you’re looking at a new system, consider all the different reports your team needs to generate. Do you need to create reports for DHS CFATS/COI? Do you spend a lot of time compiling data for Tier II reporting, or is that one you aren’t concerned about? Having a list will help you narrow down your search to software systems that will meet your reporting needs (or quickly ID systems that won’t work), saving you time down the road.

2. It’s easy to imagine using the software in your everyday tasks

When searching for new chemical inventory management software, what matters most is selecting a system you’ll actually use. You know you’ve found the right system if you can immediately envision yourself using it to locate chemicals across your organization. Or if you can picture using it to run one-click reports. A good system should not only save you time – it should result in less uncertainty, greater confidence, and fewer headaches.

We recommend creating a list of your most common tasks, such as data entry, reporting, ordering and disposal, and so on. Then think about how long it takes to complete these tasks. Some people may even find it helpful to keep a time log over a week or two to see how much time they’re spending on various activities.

When evaluating a potential system, consider whether the new system will save you substantial time and energy on the most critical, or tedious, tasks. Many vendors will help you calculate the potential time savings. Ask for “lookalike” customer success stories to gain insight into the potential impact of this software for your organization.

3. The workflows available will seamlessly scale

Purchasing chemical inventory software is a big investment. It's important to choose a system that not only meets your needs today but can scale with you in the future. Will this software meet your organization’s needs five years from now?

A lot can change over a year, and a system that seems like a dream today can turn into a nightmare if your organization grows. Look at the workflows you outlined above, and imagine you’ve got to perform those tasks with double the chemical volume, or with a new class of hazard you haven’t had to track before. Does it still seem manageable? Or is it hard to imagine how you could get it all done? Ideally, you want to license a system that fits your needs now and can accommodate your requirements in the future.

A big part of this comes down to the vendor’s team. They should be willing to listen and explain how the system can scale to accommodate your future needs. Ultimately, you want a customer support team you can rely on if the road gets bumpy.

4. Searching and filtering tools are available to quickly answer inventory questions

You’ll know in a matter of minutes if the software you’re considering checks this box. A good chemical inventory management system should allow you to answer questions like, “Where are all our peroxide formers?” and “How much flammable solvent do we have in this building?” quickly and accurately. After all, there’s a reason you’re moving away from spreadsheets and disorganized filing cabinets to an advanced organizational system.

A good search tool should return information fast. You shouldn’t have time to get up for a cup of tea while you’re waiting for your results to populate. It should also return all relevant results — not leave you scratching your head at why a particular chemical isn’t showing up when you know it should be.

When it comes to filtering, there are two big things to look for. First, you should be able to filter on several dimensions at once — for example, filtering for oxidizers within a specific building. Second, you should have a diverse range of filtering options, such as location, hazard class, and regulatory implications. There’s nothing more frustrating than when you go to filter results by certain criteria, only to realize that option doesn’t exist.

5. Maintaining your inventory feels sustainable

A chemical inventory system is only as good as the data within it. So even if a software system has all the features you’re looking for, you might want to reconsider if it seems like a lot of work to maintain.

Try to keep in mind that maintaining an accurate chemical inventory is an ongoing effort with many moving parts. Activities like bulk edits, controlling spaces and groups, and ensuring consistency in chemical identification are all important aspects of maintaining your inventory. You know you've found the right software if you can perform these tasks easily. Otherwise, if it’s a lot of work to keep up with your inventory, there’s a good chance you’ll end up with outdated and unreliable results.

6. The software can connect to systems that fulfill other safety needs

Although it’s great to find a solution that meets your chemical inventory requirements, it’s important to remember that you’re not buying a software solution in a vacuum. Before you even consider buying chemical inventory management software, you should make sure that it can work with your other safety systems.

For example, is the data in your chemical inventory management system accessible to inspectors or internal auditors? If you need to share data with regulators or first responders, how will that work?

It's a good idea to explore these possibilities thoroughly before you sign on the dotted line. No matter how much you like the look of a new chemical inventory system, if it isolates your data from other groups or systems that need to share information, it’s not the right software for you.

Final Thoughts

Chemical inventory management software offers many advantages. It can help your organization save time, answer questions with confidence, and maintain a high state of audit readiness — but that’s only if you select the right system.

Finding the right software for your organization is no small challenge, and there’s a lot to think about before you commit to a purchase decision. By paying attention to the six signs we’ve outlined in this article, you’ll be able to make a smart choice and reap the full rewards of a chemical inventory management system.  

SciSure’s Chemical Inventory Management Software was built by scientists, for scientists. Built with a proprietary chemical database originally developed by Stanford University, ChemTracker empowers EHS professionals by simplifying your chemical safety management to increase accuracy, streamline internal processes, and ultimately enhance site safety.

Leverage our scalable SaaS solution to meet your unique laboratory needs. Talk with a SciSure for Health & Safety specialist today!

‍BOSTON, MA – Elemental Machines and SciSure (formerly eLabNext) announced today that the Elemental Machines’ Connector add-on will now be available for free in the eLab Marketplace, eLabNext’s application library for extending and personalizing the functionality of their Digital Lab Platform. The Elemental Machines’ Connector supports wireless Element Machines' sensors, which can monitor and record real-time data on temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors, allowing labs to respond instantly to temperature deviations among storage devices with customizable cellular alerts. 

“We are proud to continue partnering with SciSure and serving customers worldwide,” says Ed Seguine, CEO of Elemental Machines. “With the launch of our new Elemental Machines’ Connector add-on, we’re showcasing our long-term vision and commitment to this partnership. This release not only supports our existing customers but offers new customers the chance to experience the value of the integration. By merging insights from Elemental Machines with eLabNext, users can gain a deeper, more sophisticated understanding of samples before and during scientific processes.”

The integration also gives users full visibility into equipment status and sample storage, driving informed decision-making, better resource management, greater reproducibility and compliance, and enhanced lab workflows. The Elemental Machines’ Connector automatically captures, documents, and provides access to data through cellular networks on a variety of environmental factors for audits and reviews to improve experimental accuracy.

“Centralizing lab data is one of the core missions of our platform,” explains Zareh Zurabyan, VP of Commericial, Americas. “The Elemental Machines’ Connector opens up SciSure software to collect environmental data generated by lab equipment, giving users easy access to all temperature readings, including the duration and magnitude of deviations. Whether you are doing clinical work, R&D, diagnostics, or long-term biobanking, it is important to have insight into sample integrity, which generates terabytes of data using a range of equipment. This integration allows users to collect historical data on temperature deviations across the entire sample journey through the lab, giving them more confidence in their sample data.”

The Element-T sensors are capable of continuously monitoring and transmitting temperature data from freezers, refrigerators, and lab spaces. Download the Elemental Machines' Connector for SciSure from the Marketplace and start integrating real-time data into your lab operations today.

About Elemental Machines

Elemental Machines’ Intelligent Operations Platform leverages the best of Internet of Things (IoT) technology and custom hardware/software solutions, delivering actionable insights to operators in life sciences, biopharma labs, biobanks, analytical labs, and manufacturing facilities. By connecting the physical and digital worlds, the platform simplifies, optimizes, and augments operations. Leaders in science, facilities, and technology trust Elemental Machines’ ecosystem for insights that accelerate innovation, predict outcomes, and shift from reactive to proactive management. With scalable solutions from incubator to enterprise, custom integrations to fit each operation’s unique needs, and a wide ecosystem of partnerships, Elemental Machines ensures operational excellence and the future-proofing of lab and manufacturing processes. 

Press contact: 
Name: Kevin Ghiasi, Vice President of Global Alliances
Email: kevin@elementalmachines.com
Website: elementalmachines.com

**Disclaimer: Sorry, tech enthusiasts — this article focuses on the general concept of the SSOT, and not the definition related to Information Architecture.

If you’re like most research organizations, your laboratory data is probably scattered across a number of binders, spreadsheets, databases, and email correspondences.

Training records are stored in one place, directory information in a different place, equipment certifications in another, audits in yet another, and so on. What's more, you probably have several different systems within each of these categories, and for each building or lab space.

Often, the same piece of information is stored in more than one location. When that information changes, it must be manually updated across all these different locations. As we all know, this is a classic recipe to make a lot of errors, to make a lot of work, or (worse yet) both.

Of course, that doesn't always happen — so you end up with multiple conflicting versions of the same information and no way to know which is true and accurate. When you're working through the challenging task of solving open-ended problems, you need all the help and information you can get.

As a result, only 34% of decision makers say they feel confident in their data, according to a survey by KPMG and Forrester.

Fortunately, there’s a solution to that problem — and it’s called a Single Source of Truth.

What is a Single Source of Truth?

In simple terms, a Single Source of Truth (SSoT) refers to one source of data that everyone agrees is the real, trusted number.

Before we go too far, we should point out that ‘Single Source of Truth’ is also used in information systems design to describe the practice of structuring a database so that each data point is stored exactly once (coupled with certain parameters related to database performance). For the purpose of this article, though, we'll focus on the general concept of a Single Source of Truth rather than the technical aspects.

To understand what a Single Source of Truth is, imagine you’re watching baseball and eating wings when your friend declares that Babe Ruth is the best baseball player of all time. You insist that it's Hank Aaron.

In order to settle the debate once and for all, you first need to agree on the website you'll use (ESPN.com vs MLB.com) and which statistic you'll look at (home runs, RBIs, batting average). What you both agree to use in the comparison is your Single Source of Truth.

It’s important to note here that if you two disagreed (“Only a fool would use Home Run stats from ESPN!” “Oh yeah? Well while you’re off in fantasy land, I’m going to use a real, meaningful number like batting average from MLB”), you would not have a Single Source of Truth.

The importance here is partly on the agreement of the database/metric, and partly in the trust/accuracy of the data found within it.

Why is a Single Source of Truth important?

A Single Source of Truth is important anytime you need one and only one right answer. That's true whether you're settling a bar bet or trying to figure out who has had training at your organization.

When your organization has a Single Source of Truth, everyone is on the same page. You know exactly where to look when you need to answer a question like, “How many people are delinquent in training at this exact moment?" or "Where are our flammable liquids stored?" Not only that, but everyone in your organization relies on the same information to make decisions.

But it doesn’t stop there. A Single Source of Truth offers several advantages that siloed systems don't otherwise provide:

• Increases productivity because you don’t have to toggle between systems to find an answer or transcribe data across multiple tools.
• Reduces the chances of human error by eliminating the need to copy and paste or manually update information from one system to another.
• Prevents duplicate records from being created.
• Improves communication because everyone agrees which numbers you should be discussing.
• Empowers better decision-making by putting the right information into people’s hands.

How does not having a Single Source of Truth increase risk?

Without a Single Source of Truth, it’s easy to end up with conflicting versions of information. Researchers move from one lab or group to another, but their training records don't move with them. Chemicals exist on your shelves, but not on your inventory. Due to a compounded series of errors, a space goes over a year without being inspected. Training is being delivered, but there is a constant worry that the records are inaccurate or delayed.

For any organization that relies on data to make decisions, that’s a huge risk to have present.

Let’s say you’re in a meeting to discuss laboratory safety challenges facing your organization. Everyone at the meeting comes to the table with different numbers gathered from different systems at different points in time.

With so much disparity between these numbers, you can’t even agree which safety risks are present and how serious they are — much less what to do about them. How old is each data point? Is it still accurate? Even if you eventually reach an agreement, if you’re using inaccurate or incomplete data, you end up wasting your time and resources on initiatives that fail to make your organization safer.

How do you establish a Single Source of Truth?

For most organizations, the best way to establish a Single Source of Truth is to consolidate your existing data into laboratory safety and risk management software. We live in the age of information, and it’s nearly impossible to keep up with the pace of research without integrated software.

Software is capable of connecting and organizing all your data — training records, chemical inventory, equipment certifications, inspection history, and any other information related to your research programs — in one place. It's available to EHS leaders, researchers, and management, so everyone can see the same information (where appropriate). And by choosing an off-the-shelf solution from a credible and proven vendor, you can implement a Single Source of Truth in a surprisingly short period of time.

However, you can easily start applying the principles of a Single Source of Truth today — even if you don’t yet have a software system in place. For example, Jeanne Ross, director of MIT Sloan School’s Center for Information Systems, recommends that organizations simply declare one.

Decide on a source from your existing systems, says Ross, and declare that this is now the one version everyone will use to make decisions. “Once you tell everyone 'This is our single source,' they work pretty hard to make it more accurate.”

Not only will this approach take you past the daunting task of getting started, but it will also help you move forward sooner so you don’t waste time waiting for perfect data or going down the wrong path.

Be warned, though, that this approach will certainly come with its fair share of struggles and growing pains, especially if this is a process your team or organization is unfamiliar with.

Regardless of how you go about it, establishing a Single Source of Truth for critical organizational operations data is becoming more and more essential. As the number of systems in use increases and the amount of complexity in operations increases, the greater the likelihood is that data will be duplicated, go un-updated, or not make it into the hands of the people who need it most. And when it comes to safety, this kind of risk cannot be tolerated.

Your takeaway

• A Single Source of Truth is the one source of data that everyone agrees is the real, trusted number.
• Having a Single Source of Truth is important anytime you need one, and only one, right answer.
• While an integrated software system is the best way to house a Single Source of Truth, you can benefit from implementing the principles of SSoT in your organization today.

Connect and organize all your data with SciSure for Health & Safety (formerly SciShield). Schedule a demo today!

In an era of rapid scientific advancement, labs are increasingly recognizing the need to evolve. Transitioning to a digital lab is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for staying competitive and efficient. Paper-based records and legacy systems, once the backbone of laboratory operations, now hinder productivity, collaboration, and compliance.

The good news? Digital tools have the power to revolutionize how labs operate. From automating workflows to securing data management, the shift to a digital lab unlocks unparalleled efficiency, precision, and connectivity. But making the leap requires thoughtful planning and a strategic approach.

In this blog, we will highlight:

• What is a digital lab?
• The benefits of embracing lab digitalization
• Challenges when transitioning to a digital lab
• How eLabNext can simplify your digital lab transition
• Practical tips for transitioning to a digital lab

Read on as we explore what it truly means to run a digital lab, why transitioning is becoming essential for scientific success, and practical steps to navigate the process with confidence. Discover how solutions like SciSure can simplify your journey and help your lab embrace the future of research.

What is a digital lab?

A digital lab is a laboratory that leverages cutting-edge technologies to digitize and automate workflows, documentation, and data management. Unlike traditional labs reliant on paper logs and manual systems, digital labs integrate advanced software and hardware to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Key components of a digital lab include:

• Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELN): Used for capturing and managing experimental data, protocols, and notes.
• Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS): Enables sample tracking, workflow automation, and centralized data storage.
• Automation tools: Automate repetitive tasks like sample labeling, inventory tracking, and compliance management.
• Cloud-based platforms: Offer secure, remote access to data and enable seamless collaboration among team members.

Together, these technologies create a connected ecosystem where data flows seamlessly, decisions are data-driven, and compliance becomes a built-in feature rather than an added burden.

The benefits of embracing lab digitalization

The shift to a digital lab is not just about keeping up with trends—it’s about unlocking transformative benefits that can revolutionize how your lab operates. From improving efficiency to ensuring compliance, here are the key reasons why transitioning to a digital lab is becoming essential for modern laboratories:

Increased efficiency and productivity

Digital tools streamline workflows by automating repetitive tasks like data entry, inventory tracking, and protocol updates. This saves time, reduces the risk of human error, and frees up lab staff to focus on more critical research activities. Automation allows researchers and lab managers to dedicate more time to scientific discovery rather than administrative burdens.

Example: Barcode and RFID-enabled sample tracking reduces the time spent searching for misplaced specimens, ensuring researchers can work faster and with greater accuracy.

Improved data management

Centralized and searchable data storage is a game-changer for labs. Digital platforms eliminate the inefficiencies of scattered paper records and siloed spreadsheets, allowing teams to access real-time data, share insights, and collaborate effortlessly. A single platform also ensures that all team members are working with the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Example: SciSure provides advanced search tools, enabling labs to retrieve sample information or experimental data in seconds rather than hours.

Regulatory compliance and security

Navigating complex regulatory environments is a challenge for any lab. Digital labs simplify compliance by automating record-keeping, generating audit trails, and aligning with standards like FDA 21 CFR Part 11, ISO/IEC 27001, and HIPAA. In addition to compliance, robust security features like encryption, role-based access controls, and automatic backups protect sensitive data from breaches or loss.

Example: With secure digital documentation, preparing for audits becomes less time-intensive and ensures your lab remains compliant with global standards.

Scalability and future-proofing

As your lab grows, the volume of data and complexity of workflows will increase. Digital labs are built to scale, seamlessly accommodating higher data volumes, expanded teams, and new instruments. Moreover, adopting digital tools positions your lab to leverage emerging technologies such as AI, machine learning, and advanced analytics, ensuring you remain competitive in an evolving research landscape.

Example: Integrating lab instruments with a centralized digital platform ensures compatibility with new technologies, avoiding the pitfalls of outdated legacy systems.

Enhanced collaboration and connectivity

Digital labs break down communication barriers by providing centralized platforms where researchers can share data, protocols, and findings in real time. This connectivity fosters collaboration across departments or even across the globe, driving innovation and speeding up project timelines.

Example: Cloud-based access to lab data enables team members to collaborate remotely, ensuring continuity even when working across different locations or time zones.

Challenges when transitioning to a digital lab

While the benefits of a digital lab are compelling, the transition process can pose several challenges. Understanding these hurdles is the first step in addressing them effectively. Here are some common obstacles labs may encounter when moving from paper-based or legacy systems to digital platforms:

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By anticipating these challenges and adopting a proactive approach, labs can navigate the transition to a digital platform more smoothly. Choosing the right digital solution and leveraging vendor support are key to overcoming these hurdles and ensuring a successful transformation.‍

Talk to one of our Lab Digitization Specialists—scientists who understand your needs—to guide you through your lab's digital transformation.

How SciSure can simplify your digital lab transition

Transitioning to a digital lab can seem overwhelming, but with the right tools and support, the process becomes far more manageable. SciSure is designed to simplify your digital transformation, offering comprehensive features and robust support to ensure a seamless transition.

Seamless ELN and LIMS integration

SciSure platform combines the functionality of ELNs, LIMS, and more, providing a centralized hub for all your lab operations. This integration eliminates the need for multiple standalone systems, streamlining workflows and ensuring all your data is connected and accessible in real time.

Advanced sample tracking and protocol management

Efficient sample management is crucial for maintaining research integrity and operational efficiency. SciSure includes features like automated sample tracking, barcoding, and RFID technology to minimize errors and improve accessibility. Protocol tracking ensures that all SOPs and workflows are consistently followed, promoting reproducibility and compliance.

Security and compliance measures

Data security and regulatory compliance are at the forefront of SciSure. The platform employs state-of-the-art encryption, rigorous user access controls, and regular security audits to protect sensitive research data. These features make the platform a trusted choice for labs handling sensitive or regulated data, ensuring peace of mind and simplifying audit preparation.

Dedicated onboarding and support

eLabNext understands that every lab is unique. That’s why their team provides personalized onboarding services, tailoring the platform to your lab’s specific needs. From data migration assistance to hands-on training, SciSure ensures your team feels confident and supported every step of the way.

• Training programs: Help staff quickly adapt to the new system.
• Ongoing support: A dedicated team is available to address questions and challenges, ensuring long-term success.
• Custom configuration: Adapt the platform to fit your lab’s unique workflows and requirements.

Scalable solutions for future growth

As your lab evolves, so does SciSure. The platform is designed to grow with your operations, easily accommodating increased data volume, expanding workflows, and integrating new technologies. This scalability makes it an ideal choice for labs looking to future-proof their operations.

Practical tips for transitioning to a digital lab

Transitioning to a digital lab doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Follow these practical steps for a smoother process:

• Start small: Begin by digitizing a single workflow or department to minimize disruption and gradually expand as the team adapts.
• Involve key stakeholders: Engage lab managers, researchers, and IT staff in the decision-making process to ensure everyone’s needs are addressed.
• Set realistic expectations: Understand that full implementation takes time. Establish clear timelines and milestones to track progress.
• Leverage vendor support: Use the training and resources provided by vendors like SciSure to ease onboarding and address challenges.
• Celebrate successes: Highlight early wins, such as improved sample tracking or reduced audit preparation time, to build momentum and reinforce the value of digital tools.

The future of lab management lies in digital labs

The shift to a digital lab is more than just a technological upgrade—it’s a transformation that drives efficiency, enhances data quality, and future-proofs lab operations. While the transition may present challenges, the long-term benefits far outweigh the hurdles.

Schedule a demo of SciSure for Research with one of our specialists and discover how it can revolutionize your lab operations.

Laboratories, especially in research-intensive fields, are seeing rapid growth—whether in sample volume, team size, or data complexity. While growth is a positive indicator of success, it also presents operational challenges. An increase in workload can strain existing systems, slow processes, and lead to errors, ultimately hindering a lab’s efficiency and scientific progress.

Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), are a digital solution designed to meet the complexities of modern laboratories. By optimizing workflows, safeguarding data integrity, and enabling scalability, LIMS offers researchers and lab managers the tools needed to keep up with the pace of scientific discovery. Here, we cover the challenges faced by growing labs, how LIMS can address these hurdles, and the benefits of scaling research with a tailored digital lab platform (DLP).

In this blog, we will explore:

• What Challenges Are Faced by Growing Labs?

• Digital Lab Platforms (DLPs) and LIMS: A Modern Solution

• Core Benefits of Scaling Research with LIMS

• Terminus Bio’s Success Story

• Key Considerations When Adopting a LIMS

• Take the Next Step in Scaling Research

What Challenges Are Faced by Growing Labs?

Managing Ever-Increasing Sample Volumes 

When labs expand, so does their sample inventory. Tracking hundreds or even thousands of samples manually using spreadsheets or traditional methods becomes prone to error. Mislabeling samples, losing critical data, or delayed processing can all derail research timelines and compromise results. For growing labs, scalable and automated systems are not just an upgrade—they're a necessity.

Impact:

• Increased risk of sample loss or errors

• Difficulty maintaining quality control

• Longer processing times, delaying experiments and results

Expanding Teams and Collaborative Workflows 

A growing team means new challenges in ensuring seamless collaboration. Larger, multidisciplinary teams often rely on disparate workflows, creating communication gaps and inconsistencies in data management. Without transparent systems to align everyone, errors multiply, and productivity takes a hit.

Challenges include:

• Lack of centralized access to shared data

• Version control issues with protocols and documents

• Breakdowns in interdepartmental communication

Ensuring Data Integrity and Compliance 

Compliance standards such as GDPR, ISO 17025, and others add another layer of complexity as labs scale. Manual data handling increases the risk of non-compliance, while fragmented systems make it harder to maintain secure and accurate records.

Potential risks:

• Regulatory violations or penalties

• Breaches in data security

• Loss of trust, both internally and with stakeholders

Digital Lab Platforms (DLPs) and LIMS: A Modern Solution

Digital Lab Platforms (DLPs), like SciSure for Research (formerly eLabNext), incorporate tools designed to centralize lab operations, including data and inventory management. A critical component of DLPs is the LIMS—a system tailored for managing samples, workflows, and compliance in an efficient, automated manner.

What Exactly are LIMS?

LIMS are software solutions built specifically to streamline laboratory operations. From sample tracking to generating compliance-ready reports, LIMS minimizes manual intervention, reduces errors, and offers the scalability needed for growing labs.

Core Features of LIMS:

• Centralized management of sample data and inventory

• Secure storage for sensitive research data

• Tools for automating workflows and quality assurance

• Real-time collaboration across remote or distributed teams

What more can a DLP offer?

A Digital Lab Platform (DLP) is an integrated system that combines tools like LIMS, electronic lab notebooks (ELNs), and inventory management to provide a unified experience for lab operations. Unlike standalone LIMS, a DLP offers broader scalability, customizable workflows, and tools for more diverse lab functions.

Key features include:

• Sample Management - through automation and centralized tracking.
• Collaboration Tools - that support document version control and shared workflows.
• Compliance Solutions - such as built-in audit trails and customizable reporting for regulatory standards.
• Inventory Management - that monitors stocks, optimizes usage, and avoids resource wastage.

By consolidating features into one platform, DLPs offer flexibility and scalability, making them ideal for labs undergoing rapid expansion.

Core Benefits of Scaling Research with a DLP

1. Streamlined Sample Management 

DLPs automate inventory tracking and ensure that every sample is accurately documented. Barcode integration, for example, can reduce manual entry times and improve accuracy.

Key outcomes:

• Faster turnaround times for experiments

• Elimination of errors in sample labeling

• Reduced administrative workload for technicians

2. Enhanced Collaboration Across Teams 

With centralized platforms, teams can easily access real-time data and workflows, ensuring consistency in operations even across larger groups.

How DLPs support collaboration:

• Shared protocols to standardize procedures

• Version control for documents to prevent miscommunication

• Automatic notifications for task updates or data modifications

3. Scalability through Customization 

Modern DLPs solutions can adapt to your lab’s unique workflows. Whether you're adding new team members, handling a higher number of samples, or expanding into new research areas, DLPs grow alongside your lab.

Features include:

• Modular systems to add functionalities as needed

• Tailored workflows for specialized procedures

• Support for long-term expansion without the need for system overhauls

4. Cost and Time Efficiency 

By automating repetitive tasks and optimizing workflows, DLPs save hours of manual labor. For growing labs with limited resources, these efficiencies translate into significant cost savings.

Benefits:

• Better allocation of staff to higher-value tasks

• Optimized use of equipment and lab infrastructure

• Improved ROI with reduced operational costs

5. Facilitation of Compliance and Reporting 

DLPs come with built-in audit trails, data encryption, and reporting tools to make compliance straightforward. Generating regulatory reports or preparing for audits becomes a seamless process.

Compliance features:

• Automatic generation of documentation for ISO or FDA inspections

• Real-time tracking of lab activities for audit readiness

• Secure data backups to ensure integrity

Terminus Bio's Success Story

For a real-world application of digital tools in scaling research, look no further than Terminus Bio, an agriculture-focused lab specializing in plant biotechnological services.

Terminus Bio faced challenges as its operations grew, particularly in managing and tracking a large and expanding sample inventory. Their manual data management system was time-consuming and prone to errors, with each sample data entry taking approximately two minutes. They had a growing demand for scalable solutions so that they could also focus on managing growth and expanding client needs. 

The Results of DLP Implementation 

By incorporating SciSure's comprehensive digital lab platform, Terminus Bio automated sample tracking and inventory management, reducing data entry time from 2 minutes to 10 seconds. This improved productivity and data management efficiency by over 90%, enabling real-time analysis of inventory data and rapid responses to technical issues and customer requests. The streamlined workflow was achieved using the platforms features such as sample tracking with barcode automation.

The flexibility and customization of SciSure's platform were crucial in meeting Terminus Bio's unique workflow needs, ultimately supporting their mission of providing top-quality, consistent services to their customer base. 

Read more about Terminus Bio’s success story.

Key Considerations When Adopting Digital Tools

Selecting the right digital platform for your lab requires strategic planning. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Lab-Specific Needs:
   Assess the specific requirements of your lab, including sample volume, team size, and workflows.

2. Adaptability and Customization:
   Choose a system that can evolve alongside your lab, whether through add-ons or modular features.

3. Long-Term Support:
   Ensure the provider offers reliable customer service and regular software updates.

4. Training for Teams:
   Adoption is only as successful as the users—invest in training so the entire team can maximize the system’s potential.

Take the Next Step in Scaling Research

Growing labs need more than traditional systems to maintain momentum in research. By implementing a robust DLP, laboratories can manage increasing complexities while staying ahead of the curve in innovation and compliance.

For more insights, explore our Customer Stories or learn about SciSure's comprehensive features tailored to your industry.

Are you ready to optimize your lab operations? Schedule a free demo with SciSure for Research today and discover how their tailored solutions can transform your workflows. 

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Boston, MA — In a groundbreaking move set to transform the way scientific research is captured and managed, Boston-based SciShield, and Groningen, Netherlands-based eLabNext, have merged to launch the world’s first and only Scientific Management Platform (SMP). The combined company has been re-branded as SciSure.  Founded by scientists for scientists, SciSure delivers the unique combination eLabNext’s Digital Lab Platform with its ELN (Electronic Laboratory Notebook) and LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) with SciShield’s comprehensive, trusted, and compliant EHS (Environmental Health & Safety) platform. The SMP will address the most pressing issues in science today: fragmented systems and the inefficiency they create.  

“Scientific organizations face the costly challenge of maintaining disparate systems that burden scientists and add unnecessary cost, complexity, and risk. Today, that changes,” said Phil Meer, Chief Executive Officer. “By bringing eLabNext and SciShield together, we accelerate our vision to deliver an unparalleled scientist experience via a platform that will serve as a digital ecosystem for stakeholders vested in ensuring accurate, safe, compliant, and streamlined scientific research.”

Unparalleled Global Scale

Trust, protection, and research integrity form the core values of SciSure. The combined company offers unparalleled global scale, featuring 800+ unique customer organizations, 550,000+ research and administrative users, and 37,000+ lab groups across Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia. Customers include global Fortune 100 Biopharma organizations, over one-third of United States R1 Academic Institutions, and laboratories within companies across diverse industries, including healthcare, oil & gas, and food safety.  

Research, Safety, Training, and Operations in a Single Platform

For decades, scientists, Lab Operations, Facilities Management, and EHS professionals have managed the dynamic and complex operational and regulatory requirements that span scientific organizations using fragmented technologies. These disconnected systems aren’t just inconvenient—they create significant risks.  These risks include inadequate research documentation, poor IP management, loss of critical experiment data, lapses in training, compliance violations, and the mishandling of hazardous materials. The SMP mitigates these risks by creating synchronized, intelligent, and proactive data-driven insights and seamless, secure workflows to enable scientists to effectively conduct and document their research, and scientific organizations to proactively inspect, report, remediate, and, ultimately, minimize risk. Moreover, via its partner-enabled marketplace, SciSure offers an open digital ecosystem designed for internal customer systems and third-party software vendors to seamlessly deliver third-party data and workflows into and out of the Scientific Management Platform (SMP).

“Our mission is to support scientific organizations in facilitating unburdened, uncompromised and safe scientific advancement,” said Nathan Watson, SciShield Founder and SciSure Chief Strategy Officer. “The SMP enables fast, efficient, and more reliable decision-making, allowing scientists to focus on what they do best: advancing their scientific discoveries.”

A Solution Designed by Scientists, for Scientists

With scientists and researchers at the core of SciSure’s Senior Leadership Team, the Scientific Management Platform (SMP) will improve the scientist experience, with benefits including:

• Liberating scientists from administrative and compliance burdens
• Enhancing trust in digital solutions and accuracy of data
• Establishing a home base for planning, documenting, and organizing research data
• Streamlining and organizing multiple technologies, allowing for data from adjacent systems to be securely integrated and available to scientists within their daily workflow

“Scientists must have confidence and trust in the digital solutions they use. When trust goes up, speed and innovation follow,” said Erwin Seinen, eLabNext co-founder and SciSure Chief Revenue Officer. “The SMP is the ultimate home base for scientists, lab operations, and EHS professionals to thrive together,” added Wouter de Jong, eLabNext co-founder and SciSure Chief Product Officer.

Ownership

SciSure is backed by Strattam Capital. Strattam Capital first invested in SciShield in 2023 to enable the company to accelerate its pace of innovation while continuing to provide best-in-class services to its high-profile customer base. In addition, the investment provided SciShield with resources to expand its product offerings, operations, and sales teams.

About the SMP

The Scientific Management Platform (SMP) redefines laboratory efficiency and compliance, empowering organizations to deliver on their missions without compromise. By uniting critical systems, the SMP champions a new era of trust and innovation in digital science, fostering collaboration and liberating scientists and researchers to make the breakthroughs the world is counting on them to make.

Explore more about the SciSure vision and learn how we’re reimagining the scientist experience at www.scisure.com.

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For more information, please contact:
Jon Zibell
Vice President of Global Alliances & Marketing
Jon.Zibell@scisure.com

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Laboratories have long stood at the forefront of scientific innovation, driving progress in medicine, technology, and beyond. However, their success has always relied on one foundational pillar—accurate and reliable data documentation. Over the years, the methods for collecting, managing, and storing lab data have dramatically evolved, moving from handwritten notes to spreadsheets and now to advanced digital systems like Electronic Lab Notebooks (ELNs). 

Here we explore the remarkable transformation of lab data documentation, the critical role ELNs play in modern laboratories, and how innovative platforms like SciSure (formerly eLabNext) take things a step further.

In this blog, we will highlight:

• The Limitations of Traditional Data Documentation
• What is an ELN?
• How Have ELNs Revolutionized Lab Data Management?
• From ELNs to DLPs
• The Benefits of Transitioning to Digital Lab Platforms
• Preparing for the Transition from Paper to Digital

The limitations of traditional data documentation

For decades, laboratories relied on paper notebooks for data documentation. While functional, paper-based systems come with significant drawbacks, especially in today's fast-paced and collaborative research environment.

Challenges laboratories face with paper-based systems:

These limitations reveal how traditional methods struggle to keep pace with the evolving needs of modern laboratories, presenting a range of challenges that hinder productivity, collaboration, and compliance.

• Prone to errors and data loss: Handwritten entries are vulnerable to mistakes, smudging, or degradation over time. Misplaced notebooks can result in the permanent loss of critical data. 

• Limited searchability and collaboration: Searching through hundreds of pages to find critical data is time-consuming and inefficient. Sharing findings with teammates, especially in multi-location labs, becomes cumbersome and impractical. 

• Compliance and legal risks: Regulatory organizations require strict adherence to data integrity and traceability standards, which can be challenging to meet with manual systems. Failing audits or mishandling compliance can cost laboratories fines, grants, or reputational damage. 

What is an ELN?

An ELN is a digital replacement for traditional paper lab notebooks, designed to streamline the recording and organization of experimental data. It serves as a hub for creating, managing, and sharing lab data securely and efficiently.

Key features of ELNs:

1. Digital record-keeping
   ELNs eliminate the need for physical documentation. They digitally capture experimental data, notes, images, and protocols all in one centralized platform. 

2. Searchable and shareable data
   With advanced search functions, ELNs enable instant retrieval of lab data. Sharing findings with team members takes only a few clicks, fostering collaboration. 

3. Compliance and traceability
   Most ELNs come equipped with features like version control, electronic signatures, and audit trails to meet standards such as FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance. 

Why are ELNs essential in today’s labs?

The phrase “What is an ELN?” has become increasingly popular in searches, reflecting the growing intrigue around this transformative tool. ELNs enable labs to meet the growing demands of precision, security, and collaboration like never before.

How have ELNs revolutionized lab data management?

The integration of ELNs into laboratory practices has fundamentally changed how data is handled across various functions, leading to better outcomes and more efficient practices.

1. Improved accuracy and efficiency

• Reduction in manual errors: Automated functions like calculated fields, templates, and error-checking tools reduce the chance of inaccuracies. 

• Rapid data retrieval: Imagine searching a keyword and instantly finding relevant experimental data from years ago.

2. Enhanced collaboration

• Real-time team access: Whether in the same lab or across continents, team members can access and edit experiments in real time. 

• Linked Workflows: ELNs allow seamless links between experimental results and lab workflows, providing a complete overview from planning to execution.

3. Strengthened compliance and security

• Built-in regulatory tools: Features like encrypted storage, automated audit trails, and user permissions ensure alignment with stringent industry standards. 

• Data recovery and protection: Cloud-based solutions safeguard lab data from accidental loss, physical damage, or unauthorized breaches.

From ELNs to DLPs: Expanding the possibilities

While ELNs have revolutionized data documentation, DLPs take it to the next level. Platforms like SciSure for Research (formerly eLabNext) integrate ELNs alongside inventory management, protocol systems, and automation capabilities to handle the growing complexities of modern labs.

Features of DLPs that go beyond traditional ELNs:

• Integration of inventory and sample management: Track biological samples, lab reagents, and consumables seamlessly with DLPs like SciSure.

• Automation and scalability: DLPs include modules that support automation, ensuring labs can scale workflows without losing productivity. 

• Customizable workflows: Laboratories can adapt platform features to suit their research requirements, creating tailor-fit solutions.

With the rise of fully integrated solutions, switching from standalone ELNs to DLPs offers labs an all-encompassing management solution. Labs that transitioned from paper to SciSure report as high as over 90% improved efficiency, along with fewer compliance-related errors.

Unlock the full secrets behind our customer success stories.

The benefits of transitioning to digital lab platforms

1. Simplified workflows through integration

By combining experiment documentation, inventory tracking, and sample management in one system, DLPs simplify operations and eradicate inefficiencies.

2. Substantial time and cost savings

Automated workflows minimize manual labor, cut down redundancies, and allow researchers to focus on high-value tasks.

3. Preparing for the future (Future-proofing data) 

Today’s research data needs to be archived sustainably to withstand decades of future use. Digital platforms safeguard your lab’s outcomes for generations.

Preparing for the transition from paper to digital

Transitioning from paper notebooks to advanced digital solutions may seem daunting, but a structured approach can make it seamless.

Steps to adopt digital tools:

1. Assess your lab’s needs
   Start by analyzing your lab's current processes. Identify pain points in documentation, areas with bottlenecks, and your compliance or regulatory requirements. This will help you determine which digital tools, like ELNs or DLPs, will have the greatest impact. Engage your team during this step to ensure you capture diverse perspectives. 
2. ‍Research and choose the right tools
   Investigate the available digital tools on the market. Prioritize platforms that align with your lab’s specific needs, are user-friendly, and offer robust support. Look for features like data security, scalability, and integration with existing systems to ensure a seamless transition.
3. ‍Roll out in stages
   Avoid overwhelming your team by starting small. Introduce the platform with one or two experiments or workflows. This allows your team to get comfortable with the tools in a controlled environment before scaling up to full lab operations.
4. ‍Schedule regular training
   Proper training is essential to ensure that your team knows how to make the most of the new tools. Set up regular training sessions to cover basic functionality, advanced features, and troubleshooting tips. Ongoing training can also help new team members onboard quickly.
5. ‍Monitor and gather feedback
   Once the tools are implemented, continuously monitor their performance and gather feedback from your team. Identify any challenges they face or additional features they need. Use this information to refine processes and improve adoption over time
6. ‍Establish clear protocols
   Create standardized workflows and guidelines on how digital tools should be used across your lab. Clearly define who is responsible for data management, how often updates should be made, and how to handle any issues that arise. This ensures consistency and accountability in your lab’s digital transformation.

Talk to one of our Lab Digitization Specialists—scientists who understand your needs—to guide you through your lab's digital transformation.

Transform your lab’s data management today

The evolution of data documentation is a testament to how far labs have come in maximizing efficiency and accuracy. Innovations like ELNs—and subsequently, DLPs—have fundamentally changed how laboratories function. For a forward-thinking lab, the move toward digital tools isn’t just an upgrade—it’s essential for survival in a competitive research landscape.

SciSure is tailor-made for modern laboratories, designed with scalability and compliance in mind. Trusted by research teams globally, our DLP ensures seamless integration of data documentation, inventory management, and collaboration tools.

Curious to explore how SciSure can guide your lab through the adoption process? Schedule a free demo!

In today's rapidly evolving scientific landscape, staying ahead of regulatory demands is crucial, and maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring data integrity are more important than ever. Lab audits, once a daunting task, have become a critical component of laboratory operations. They ensure that labs adhere to industry standards and maintain the highest levels of accuracy and reliability. However, with SciSure (formerly eLabNext), mastering lab audits becomes not just a necessity but an opportunity to elevate your lab's efficiency and compliance. Discover how digital lab platforms can streamline audit processes, enhance compliance, and ultimately transform your lab into a model of efficiency.

In this blog, we will explore:

• What are lab audits?

• Digital Lab Platforms and Regulatory Compliance

• Enhancing data security with digital solutions

• Practical tips to prepare for lab audits

• A success story insight
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What are lab audits?

Lab audits are systematic examinations of laboratory operations to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and internal policies. They play a crucial role in maintaining data integrity, ensuring safety, and enhancing the overall quality of lab work. Audits can be internal, conducted by the laboratory itself, or external, performed by regulatory bodies. Regardless of type, the goal is to verify that the lab's processes and records are accurate and compliant.

Challenges in traditional processes

Traditional lab audits often involve manual processes that are prone to errors. They can significantly impact the accuracy and reliability of the results. Handwritten records can be difficult to read due to poor handwriting or fading ink, making it challenging to extract precise information. Paper-based documentation is also susceptible to loss or damage from environmental factors like water or fire, which can further complicate data retrieval. These challenges can lead to inconsistencies, making it difficult to trace data and verify compliance with established standards. 

Compiling and reviewing records can become incredibly time-consuming and labor-intensive without digital tools to streamline these processes. This inefficiency can leave labs vulnerable to costly delays in reporting, potential regulatory penalties for non-compliance, and a reduced ability to quickly respond to inquiries or audits. In an era where accuracy and efficiency are paramount, these traditional methods may no longer be sufficient for meeting the rigorous demands of today’s scientific and industrial landscapes.

The importance of traceability

One of the key aspects of lab audits is traceability, which refers to the ability to track the history, application, and location of records or samples used in the lab. This process ensures that accountability is maintained and all information can be accurately retrieved. In traditional audits, achieving traceability is often a cumbersome process, requiring meticulous record-keeping and detailed documentation. Lab personnel must spend significant time manually logging every step of their work, ensuring that each entry is complete and correct. Without the aid of digital tools, the risk of human error increases, which can compromise the audit's outcomes by introducing inconsistencies or inaccuracies. Such errors can lead to incorrect conclusions or regulatory non-compliance, making the audit process less reliable and more stressful for those involved.

Digital lab platforms and regulatory compliance

Automated documentation

Digital lab platforms like SciSure offer automated documentation features that significantly enhance accuracy and efficiency. By digitizing records, labs can eliminate manual errors and ensure that data is consistently recorded. This automation streamlines the documentation process, reducing the time spent on manual entries. Digital platforms like SciSure allow for real-time updates, ensuring that all records are current and accurate, making record retrieval and review during audits seamless.

Audit trails and version control 

Maintaining detailed audit trails and version control is essential for compliance. Digital lab platforms provide these features, allowing labs to track every change made to a record. SciSure's comprehensive audit trails ensure that all modifications are documented, providing a clear history of data management. This transparency is invaluable during audits, ensuring that every update is accounted for and easily traceable.

Regulatory alignment  

Digital platforms align with regulatory frameworks such as FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and ISO standards. This alignment ensures that labs are compliant with industry requirements, reducing the risk of non-compliance. SciSure is a prime example of a platform that integrates these standards, providing labs with the tools needed to meet regulatory demands effectively. Its robust features ensure labs can consistently achieve compliance, simplifying the process of adhering to rigorous standards.

For more on how digital standard operating procedures contribute to consistent compliance, check out our SOP blog.

Enhancing data security with digital solutions

Security features  

Data security is a top priority for laboratories, and digital platforms offer robust security measures. Features such as encryption and access controls safeguard sensitive information from unauthorized access. Ensuring data security is critical for maintaining integrity and confidentiality. 

SciSure

's data center and network security features, including multi-layered firewalls, secure data transport, and continuous monitoring, ensure compliance with data protection regulations and robust protection against unauthorized access and data breaches. 

Role-based access control

Role-based access control (RBAC) is an important security feature that digital platforms provide. RBAC allows labs to assign specific access permissions based on user roles, ensuring that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data. This feature enhances security by minimizing the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access.

Advanced encryption

Digital lab platforms employ advanced encryption techniques to safeguard data. Encryption ensures that data is protected during transmission and storage, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. By implementing encryption, labs can enhance the security of their data and maintain compliance with industry standards.

Practical tips for preparing for lab audits

• Pre-audit preparation: To ensure a successful audit, labs should leverage digital tools for documentation and compliance readiness. This involves organizing records, ensuring all documentation is up-to-date, and conducting mock audits to identify potential issues. By preparing in advance, labs can streamline the audit process and minimize disruptions.

• Ongoing training: Regular staff training is essential for maintaining compliance. Labs should ensure that all employees are familiar with digital lab platforms and compliance protocols. Training programs should cover the use of digital tools, data management practices, and regulatory requirements. Ongoing education helps staff stay informed and prepared for audits.

• Continuous improvement: Digital tools facilitate continuous improvement in lab operations. By analyzing audit results and feedback, labs can identify areas for enhancement and implement changes to improve efficiency and compliance. This proactive approach ensures that labs remain competitive and compliant in an ever-changing regulatory landscape.

A success story insight

SciSure

not only enhances regulatory compliance with its digital lab platform but also integrates robust security measures to ensure data integrity. The platform's ISO 27001 certification reflects its commitment to secure data management, providing a secure environment for storing and handling sensitive information.

Interested in a real success story? Read our Customer Story with the Children's Cancer Institute Australia

Elevate your lab's compliance game

The integration of digital tools is revolutionizing the way laboratories approach audits and regulatory compliance. By leveraging digital lab platforms like SciSure, labs can enhance accuracy, streamline processes, and ensure compliance with industry standards. The benefits of digital transformation extend beyond audits, improving overall lab efficiency and data security. 

For more information, check out our blogs on Data Security and Compliance.‍

‍Ready to transform your lab? Contact us for personalized advice or to schedule a platform demonstration. By embracing digital innovation, your lab can become a leader in compliance and operational excellence.