How can you design a laboratory workflow that maximizes the benefits of laboratory tools?

If samples need more than one assay/measurement done using different techniques/instruments consider whether you can run them in parallel, but only if you can ensure representative sampling. Make sure you plane enough time, resources, reagents and other consumables to run replicates as might be required. Plan instrument maintenance and staff vacations to ensure as little downtime and negative impact to sample analysis as possible.

We have to focus three items: The hardware The software The history (Name of company, year of manufacture,.....) For each tool we have to gathering this information and then going to next step. Without the deep understand of these concepts, probability the results have full of mistakes.

Efficient lab performance starts with proper organization. Define goals, identify tasks, estimate time and budget, and carefully select equipment. Consider potential risks, challenges, and opportunities to avoid unnecessary delays, errors, and waste. Well-thought-out planning lays the foundation for the successful use of laboratory equipment.

Designing a laboratory workflow that maximizes the benefits of laboratory tools involves careful planning, integration of technologies, and consideration of the specific needs and goals of the laboratory

Designing a laboratory workflow maximizing benefits involves analyzing current operations, integrating tools seamlessly, training staff effectively, setting clear SOPs, implementing quality control measures, managing data efficiently, seeking feedback from staff, and prioritizing continuous improvement. By fostering innovation and collaboration, labs can optimize tool utilization for enhanced efficiency and quality outcomes.

A good workflow starts by knowing how long the instruments need for equilibration / stabilisation before a validation can start (calibration is mostly done during maintenance). Defining a validation schedule is also important (can be daily, weekly, monthly or depending on the project). In addition one needs to know what safety precautions are needed (personal protection, what to do in case of an emergency, etc).

Doing the work you have planned is very important. Follow SOPs, observe quality and safety standards, and document results and findings. Use the right tools for each job, and make sure they are properly evaluated, prepared, and stored. The program ensures goal achievement, regulatory compliance, and data integrity protection, maximizing the usefulness of your lab equipment.

For me, the best way would be to implement real-time monitoring mechanisms to track progress and identify bottlenecks in the workflow. Prompt feedback allows for timely adjustments, ensuring continuous improvement and optimal utilization of laboratory tools.

In addition, one should be aware of the 'operating window' of the instrument used. By knowing the boundaries of the set-up one can distinguish between true measurement data and artefacts.

Evaluating completed business plans is important. Analyze the data, compare results to expectations, and identify gaps, errors, or areas for improvement. Evaluate the efficiency, effectiveness, and quality of the equipment, and provide feedback and suggestions for future use. Research advances skills, knowledge and practice, contributes to professional growth and optimizes laboratory value.

No existe mejor evalución del flujo de trabajo que un sistema de gestion de calidad implementado, que vaya madurando con la organzación. Una vez establecido las auditorias de primera y tercera parte son una excelente hermanienta.

I totally agree with this, evaluating your workflow gives you a better perspective of what tools are more useful and what you can do without. It definitely helps you save time in the future. That means you become more efficient and the quality of your work definitely improves.

Very important aspect! Tools in general, but also tools needed for performing an analysis. For example a viscosity measurement. The optimal measurement geometry will provide you the information you are looking for. When using a less optimal geometry the data will be limited or even wrong (due to wall-slip that can occur or other 'mistakes' made)

Es muy importante valorar la experiencia de compa?eros de trabajo. Preguntar, no quedarse con dudas. Es la mejor manera de aprender y fortalecer relaciones laborales. Siempre mantenerse actualizado, participando de congresos y capacitaciones. Y compartir las novedades con nuestros compa?eros en el laboratorio.

The training is the most thing that should be done every period of to time for staff to be updated, so i think the training is the most useful part

Totally agree. It is better to ask, and to share, than 'reinventing the wheel'. Don't be afraid to ask - there are no stupid questions

Talk to the people who actually make the work flow, not just designers and architects. Understand the needs "in the field", to be effective, not just efficient.

Despues de la pandemia de Sars-Cov 2, la innovación tecnológica ha sido de suma importancia, pero recordemos que no sólo se trata de automatización sino tambien de humanización y concientización del personal que colabora en la organización.