An Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN) is a software that replicates your physical lab notebook. You enter observations, protocols, notes and any other data you would have naturally put into the notebook into the software.
It is a great way to integrate your lab processes into your entire office workflow systems to enable better collaboration and project management. Besides, they enable better lab management as you are able to keep a record of your inventories, projects and their timelines and the results of the previous undertakings.
ELNs are not made equal. As SapioScience ELN expert explains, they come with varying features and capabilities, with several tailored to meet the needs of specific laboratories. This means that you should be careful to check if your chosen ELN software meets your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind when making a choice.
Check the Advanced Features
Apart from the workbooks and journal entries, check what else your chosen ELN enables you to accomplish. A good number of these features are not always highlighted in the brochure. For example, you may check if the service connects to third-party software such as inventory management or your ERP system for better management.
You may also check if the software allows you to pick resources from your local storage without having to upload them to the system before manipulating them. It is also good to check if you can collaborate with other users or create standard study templates on the go.
Ease of Use and Customization
Like any other software tool, you need to check if it is easy to use, navigate, or retrieve data. You do not want to waste your precious minutes looking for information on the software. Check the user interface, links to databases and any information that is made readily available.
On the same note, ensure that the software platform can be customised to meet your needs. Can you change the interface to see specific information on the front page? Can you change access and data manipulation settings to create layered security? A customizable solution offers quality solutions that are tailored to your needs.
What is the Cost of the Software
In many cases, you do not own the software but rather lease it for your needs. There are organisations that can sell you the solution and help manage it. When looking at the cost, look at what you will have to pay beyond the initial purchase of the software. Are there training costs? What is the cost of the SLA? Are there additional modules you will need to purchase to enable integration? The total cost will be the cost of ownership.
Enhanced Security
Most companies have labs to research their new solutions, technologies and products. This is vital, secret information that should not be accessed by unauthorised third parties. Ensure that the solution you choose allows you to save data securely so that even the managing organisation does not have access to it.
Remember, most industries have data security rules that you have to comply with, especially if part of the lab tests includes human beings. Go through the regulations and check if the solution meets each of them to the letter. Otherwise, it is likely to cause you legal issues in the future if it becomes known that you never followed any of them.
Stability and Scalability
You want to have a reliable solution that you can use for extended periods without a problem. If you are not making software from scratch, check what platforms your peer organisations are using. If you have a solution in mind, it is good to know what other organisations have been using it. It gives you a picture of its reliability and compatibility with your research work.
On the other hand, be sure to check if the ELN solution has the ability to scale operations should the organization expand in the future. Can you use the same software across different laboratories spread across a wide area? Can you collaborate with a different team working on another system overseas? What licences would you need if you wanted to scale your operations?
How Do I Choose an ELN?
Good ELN software provides a mix of reliable service with quality features to enable the organisation to meet its needs. Take the time to choose a reliable solution for your labs.
Anthony Smith is a visionary web developer and writer at JTK Web. With a passion for integrating AI and IoT into web design, Anthony crafts articles that explore the intersection of technology and user experience. His insights into future trends make him a valuable voice in the tech community.
