Electronic lab notebooks are software programs created to replace paper notebooks in laboratories. Also known as electronic laboratory notebooks, they come in a wide-ranging variety from open-source software such as Indigo ELN to more premium software with even broader features.
It offers secure cloud-based storage that helps with data security and data storage for the research being conducted. ELN software is a management tool that records, shares, archives, and protects research data more effectively than traditional lab notebooks.
Why use ELN
The need for more advanced technology to keep up with the ever-demanding scene of research has led to paper lab notebooks becoming irrelevant. Printing research and clipping it into physical books can sometimes lead to loss of data or even confusion.
Electronic lab notebooks eliminate the need for paper. They are linked to most laboratory software and create an easier way for data management and the keeping of electronic records.
Electronic laboratory notebooks offer several advantages over paper. Before taking the plunge and introducing an electronic research notebook to employees, you should evaluate how it may affect the daily activities of the research center.
Analyzing whether it will improve the laboratory’s effectiveness is crucial. Knowing which specific software will work for your research needs and offer a significant advantage should be the priority.
Get Educated
A basic requirement is to research existing software and services. Knowing how each service will be useful for your research activities and whether it will improve your outcomes. Taking a comparative look at existing software and finding out what advantages are offered by each.
Evaluate the Costs
Selecting the right software is not the end, however. You might think that the software will be useful for your laboratory and research activities, but how much will it cost to implement the service? The free version of the software has fewer services and more premium features but comes at a higher price.
For you to not let your services suffer, you need to find the best software at a price that will not put a strain on your business.
Stability and Integration
After choosing from the options available that will not strain your wallet, how stable are the programs to be able to handle your electronic lab services? Can it be easily integrated into your daily activities with minimal effort?
How soon will your staff be able to handle the new system? By answering these questions, you will be able to choose software that will actually assist you in your daily life.
Objectives of ELN Software
A good electronic laboratory notebook should serve as a central source for data management. Linking all the different services offered to a central system that provides quick data transfer and storage capabilities. Security of scientific data is imperative, and providing the best way to keep experimental data safe is required.
Creating workflow tables and retrieving data is crucial. A lab notebook should minimize the effort required and be able to provide templates that can be used for certain repetitive functions. In addition, it should provide an easy method of data retrieval. Defining templates and creating automated workflows for easier linking of data to researchers and also securing the data for intellectual integrity and security.
ELN software should provide an easy way to change data. It should be flexible enough to handle changes that occur or are recorded. This will reduce the need to keep introducing updated data with each minimal change to research results.
Benefits of ELN Software
Electronic research notebooks offer an easier way to manage data for scientists, researchers, technicians, and engineers. Data and sample documentation is made simpler with template design, storage, retrieval, and sharing.
More advanced software provides higher security levels to protect intellectual property and can be used as evidence in court. Using electronic signatures, only specific individuals can access specific data.
With the advancement of technology, notebooks are now able to provide off-site access through mobile device authentication parameters. Researchers can log into the software and continue their work or even retrieve data through the internet of things.
Sammy Benns is a seasoned cybersecurity expert and a passionate advocate for small business digital safety. With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, Sammy combines deep technical knowledge with a keen understanding of the unique challenges faced by small businesses. As a ‘Hero’ archetype, Sammy is dedicated to empowering small business owners with the tools and knowledge to protect their digital world.