There are dozens of laboratory-based software available today, ranging from simple to complex. Not all software can fit every laboratory, but choosing the right tool can be difficult. Not only that, but your choice depends on what you’re replacing or what type of laboratory business you run.

If you select the right tool for your needs, you’ll increase the productivity and efficiency of your lab. Plus, any of the following tools will allow traceability, which is essential for data integrity.

The Best Laboratory Software for Your Business

Although each laboratory tool is helpful in its own right, your business may get more use out of one, or a combination of, the following software. Here are 10 tools for your company to consider.

1. The Colabra App: An Electronic Lab Notebook (ELN)

The Colabra App, found at Colabra.app, is an electronic lab notebook that replaces paper notebooks used in the R&D process. An ELN is a research data management platform that tracks inventories and equipment. It’s also built for collaboration, sharing, and integrating.

2. LabWare LIMS: A Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

Whereas an ELN focuses on inventory management, a LIMS like LabWare LIMS is commonly used in analytical labs. A LIMS tracks samples and their metadata then analyzes the results. A LIMS supports data integrity and integration with other systems, such as ELNs and HIS.

3. PSCL LDMS: A Laboratory Data Management System (LDMS)

Sometimes included with a LIMS and ELN, an LDMS acts as cloud storage for lab research data. An LDMS can also store metadata and has features like access control, lifecycle management, audit trails, and e-signatures. Services like PSCL LDMS can serve as backbone storage.

4. Chromeleon: A Chromatography Data Management System (CDMS)

Also referred to as a CDS, a CDMS is similar to an LDMS but comes with additional features. For example, Chromeleon CDMS is a cloud application that allows remote control and data analysis. Since a CDMS has features regulated by 21 CFR Part 11, compliance isn’t an issue.

5. Mettler Toledo: A Process Analytical Technology (PAT) Software

PAT software is primarily used in biotechnology production, meaning it has to be approved by the FDA before it can be used. Mettler Toledo’s PAT has such approval. PAT software manages the online control systems, can adjust production parameters, and are typically custom built.

6. STARLIMS LES: A Laboratory Execution System (LES)

STARLIMS LES, and other systems like it, can execute processes according to standard operating procedures (SOP). Its sole function is to outline the details to perform specific procedures in the laboratory. While still used today, most LES features are available in ELNs.

7. Bookitlab: A Automation Scheduling (AS) Software

Bookilab’s AS software is a tool that offers flexible control over scientific equipment and services. Some features of an AS include equipment scheduling, inventory management, access control, and business intelligence. An AS can fully integrate with a LIMS or ELN.

8. WinWedge: A Laboratory Instrument Interface (LIIS) Software

Although a LIIS will come with laboratory instruments, many labs feel that what’s included lacks the control and flexibility they need to be productive. Software like WinWedge makes data collection more user-friendly for meters, scales, balances, and other RS232 instruments.

9. Blue Prism: Middleware and Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Middleware is just that: a middle man between two applications. Companies like Blue Prism handle the data exchange between multiple systems. Although adopting an RPA can be expensive, it can increase the output of your lab because it automates repetitive tasks.

10. NetSuite: An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software

Laboratory managers could use an ERP like NetSuite for planning and managing the lab’s supply chain, finances, manufacturing, services, among other things. Laboratories can integrate ERP software with the other tools on this list to create an all-in-one management solution.