nir-vana innovation network

BioBanking and other collections of biological resources are becoming increasingly important. These structures need to use a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) in order to manage the high volume of information and meet the high quality standards required by scientists and hence by accreditation bodies.

A German company´s software platform offers the possibility to manage samples, studies and projects, to document studies and projects and to keep an ELN (electronic lab notebook). It is also usable as SaaS (software as a service)/cloud solution).

Software features:
* Can be integrated into any infrastructure
* Can be used regardless of location
* Can be used mobile via tablet + Bluetooth scanner
* Self-configurable input masks, efficient management of biological samples
* Simple integration of routine data
* Export function: Excel, Word, PDF, XML (extensible Markup Language), CSV (comma-separated values)
* Import functions
* Monitoring function / Query system
* User roles and access rights
* Calendar and document management
* Linking of case, sample, aliquot and assigned data
* Control of hand scanners and mass scanners
* Control of barcode printers
* Easy duplication of records
* Access to standard catalogs (e.g.: ICD-10 = International Classification of Diseases, red list, OPS = operation and procedure key) and possibility to define own catalogs
* Possibility to query all database fields and additionally calculated fields and to export them as Excel lists
* Illustration of different sample containers
* Share samples with other centers
* Functions for reserving samples
* Functions for access by guests
* Pseudonymisation service (PSD), the PSD encrypts sensitive data according to ISO standard 25237 and the data protection concept of TMF (a technology and methods platform)
* Graphical overview of refrigerators and samples
* Audit Trail
* Support during operation with manuals, videos, FAQ database, direct help in the software, access to customer portal, news function within the software

Technical requirements:
- Technical Basis
The software is completely programmed in AJAX (asynchronous JavaScript and XML) and is delivered with a relational, license-free database system (ORACLE "MySQL"). This technology makes it possible to operate as a distributed service in an intranet or the Internet. The system is role- and rights-based and can be used on any Windows or Linux system.

- Server
The software products are applications that are realized by means of web technologies. For operation, hardware in the form of a computer system and a web server such as Apache, a MySQL database and the programming language PHP are required (a so-called "AMP" stack). In detail, the German company recommends the following versions:

- Operating System
The server can use any operating system under which the AMP stack can run. The German company recommends using a Linux distribution, preferably.

A link to a user manual can be forwarded.

Quality Management System: Built with strict requirements and based on ISO 9001-2015. Information on further certification is available.

The software is either to rent or - if intended to be run on a company´s own server - be purchased.

A demo version of the product is available online. Furthermore a non-binding webinar is offered.

The German company which has more than 15 years experience is looking for partners from the pharmaceutical industry or for private sector laboratories for commercial agreement with technical assistance. Also a license agreement is possible.

Advantages & innovations

Compared with other products the web-based software has extensive security features and is multi-client capable. This means that several laboratories can use the software independently of each other or work together. * Software can be adapted functionally to the needs of the laboratory, if the workflows cannot be mapped directly by the configuration settings. * Flexible license model: companies can calculate their costs at the German SME´s website. The prices depend on the quantity of samples that are managed. * The data entry masks are configurable. * The product is optimized for mobile usage. * It is future-proof and upgradable at any time. * The company and the product development is ISO 9001 certified. * Professional service during installation * Fast and reliable support

Stage of development

Already on the market

Partner sought

Partners from the pharmaceutical industry or private sector laboratories are sought for a commercial agreement with technical assistance. The German company offers its product for purchase on a non-exclusive basis. The company supports technology transfer and offers additional support such as system migration, advice on setting up projects and assistance with long-term project management and support for all project participants. Furthermore they are looking for licensees in the clientele mentioned above. The role of the partner sought would be - as end users - to provide contributions in terms of content and thus contribute to further development.