Most R&D organizations want to digitize their processes to improve collaboration, reduce data errors, and increase productivity with more modern software, such as a laboratory information management system (LIMS) or electronic lab notebook (ELN). However, many are still trying to figure out the best approach to balancing new digital tools with physical lab equipment. This is where laboratory execution systems (LES) come in.
LES platforms help bridge the digital world and the physical lab in a way that LIMS and ELNs are just not able to. In this guide, we'll explain what a laboratory execution system is, how it works, and when it makes sense to use one.
What Is a Laboratory Execution System (LES)?
A laboratory execution system (LES) is a computer-based system that acts as a “middleman” that connects your current digital tools and physical lab equipment. In its most basic form, an LES will turn a digital protocol, such as a procedure recorded in an ELN, into step-by-step instructions for your lab technicians as they perform procedures on your lab equipment. A good LES will also provide accurate and timely support through different digital tools as scientists perform lab experiments.
How Does a Laboratory Execution System Work?
When first setting up an LES, you’ll need to create a digital workflow for each of your lab procedures. Most LES platforms allow you to drag and drop specific steps to create procedural workflows, similar to building a flowchart. After these workflows are programmed into the system, lab technicians can then use the LES software to prompt them through each step of a procedure in real time.
Throughout this process, the LES automatically captures information and data related to each step and uses it to improve the process over time. This makes it easier to spot abnormalities and errors while your team is completing the procedure, which reduces mistakes and saves time on future experiments.
What Is a Laboratory Execution System Used For?
LES platforms are primarily used to translate digital protocols into physical lab procedures. They are essentially a bridge between your current digital tools and physical equipment. This includes ensuring compliance with procedures and protocols while also automatically collecting data throughout the process.
You might also use a laboratory execution system to:
- Guide lab technicians through complex lab procedures
- Automate certain steps, such as equipment configuration and data collection
- Ensure standard operating procedures (SOPs) are followed correctly
- Integrate with other R&D platforms to ensure SOPs and protocols are kept up-to-date
- Reduce paperwork and manual data entry
Laboratory Execution System vs. LIMS vs. ELN
To better understand how an LES works, it can help to differentiate between the three main types of laboratory software: LES, ELN, and LIMS. Although there is quite a bit of overlap in the functionality of these tools, there are some key differences.
An electronic lab notebook (ELN) is a digital version of a paper lab notebook. Scientists use them to record research notes, procedures, and lab data. Like a LIMS, you can use an ELN to track samples, but ELNs are much better suited to managing and organizing research in a structured, searchable way. ELNs are generally more flexible than LIMS, making them well-suited for research and development applications.
A laboratory information management system (LIMS) is primarily used to track and manage samples throughout their lifecycle. LIMS are good at handling high-volume, high-throughput, and standardized workflows where every sample goes through identical steps. They often integrate directly with lab instruments for automated data capture. LIMS are commonly used in quality control (QC), clinical, and forensic labs.
A laboratory execution system (LES) is a “middleman” between your digital tools and physical lab equipment. While an ELN records notes and a LIMS tracks samples, an LES is what prompts your technicians through your physical lab procedures, step-by-step. LES platforms often serve as a bridge between your ELN or LIMS and your lab equipment, ensuring that the right procedures are used for each sample and that the correct data is captured automatically.
When Should You Use an LES?
A laboratory execution system is a great option for labs that perform complex, multi-step physical procedures and want to make sure technicians are following up-to-date protocols correctly. Labs that want to automate data capture from physical equipment would also benefit from an LES.
Organizations that typically benefit most from using an LES include:
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Biotech research
- Chemical manufacturing
- Food and beverage testing
- Clinical and diagnostic labs
What Are the Benefits of a Laboratory Execution System?
Using a laboratory execution system can provide a wide range of benefits, including:
- Improve lab efficiency by automating data collection and reducing manual data entry for faster workflows
- Reduce errors by prompting technicians through procedures and flagging deviations from protocols
- Ensure compliance with SOPs and regulatory requirements by capturing detailed audit trails of each step
- Improve collaboration by integrating with existing digital tools for smooth data flow across systems
- Drive innovation by freeing scientists from administrative tasks so they can spend more time on high-value research activities
The Bottom Line
If your lab performs complex procedures and data capture is a priority, laboratory execution systems can be a great way to ensure compliance and efficiency in the lab. However, it’s important to consider the full picture of your R&D software needs when evaluating an LES. Depending on the use case, you may not need an LES at all.
Instead, consider an all-in-one R&D platform that seamlessly combines the functionality of an ELN, LIMS, and LES in one place. Uncountable, for example, provides a comprehensive R&D platform that can handle all your data management and execution needs in a single system, from experiment management and collaboration to automated data capture and advanced analytics.
Try Uncountable for free today to see how our platform can help streamline your lab workflows and accelerate your research and development processes.
