As business demands evolve, software and technology become obsolete. The face of the pharmaceutical industry has changed dramatically over the years. Digitalization gradually paced in and is now accelerating versions. Labs too need to match pace with the latest industry advancements. Many new, unforeseen challenges need to be addressed. Some of them include – constantly evolving laboratory standards, flexibility to expand, and compatibility with the latest software/instruments.
Lab challenges are unique. While they need to be equipped with the latest technology and be ready for increased drug demands, compliance is another major task. To achieve operational excellence with these challenges, laboratory information management systems must be adept to nurture the needs of future labs.
Legacy Systems Perform, But Not Efficiently!
Pharma companies are typically resistant to accepting change. Many take a back step due to fear of messing up with the existing system which might hamper productivity. However, today a robust LIMS is not a choice, but a necessity. Software upgrade is a crucial decision as it requires a significant investment in time, resources, and costs.
Labs relying on outdated LIMS may face issues with managing huge volumes of data or keeping up with the latest industry standards. Modern technologies and business applications demand more integration. A LIMS that uses unsupported legacy software may be vulnerable to security breaches. Such incidents can lead to non-compliance, resulting in expensive fines, loss of company reputation, and inability to sustain in the ever-growing industry. Moreover, during lab expansion, an outdated LIMS may not be flexible enough to accommodate new functions or capabilities.
Upgrading LIMS Drives Overall Lab Performance
New software brings in scope for improved dynamics. In a lab environment, a new LIMS with updated features brings more stability and scalability. Using tomorrow-ready LIMS makes automation, data sharing, and optimized workflows an easy to reach goal with added flexibility. It drives operational agility when labs prepare to scale up their operations.
“A modern LIMS platform seamlessly connects with existing digital systems and instruments. This fosters a fully integrated experience across the organization. Having a single solution to manage entire lab processes from drug development through manufacturing and packaging, provides a holistic view of operations.”
Newer versions of LIMS include improvements in features that streamline processes, have the latest software, reduce errors, and prevent siloed environments. With a unified LIMS system, companies can be more agile. While lab management systems have come a long way since inception, considering a LIMS upgrade would prove beneficial in the long run.
Delaying an Upgrade Would Only Degrade Your Systems Further
While legacy systems already in use are always comfortable to work with, delaying your decision for a LIMS upgrade could pose serious issues. Labs relying on older versions lack advanced functionality or the latest developments in technology. For example, with Microsoft taking down its Internet Explorer browser and dropping support for legacy programs, labs might face compatibility and accessibility issues. Compliance shortcomings become more frequent as systems become obsolete. Data breaches and malware attacks are more prevalent. Nevertheless, upgrading now is a healthy decision for maintaining lab efficiencies.
Nurturing People for a Smooth LIMS Migration
Migration is mainly resisted by people – people who use the system, people who are responsible for departmental outcomes, people who are answerable, and people who drive the entire lab process. While LIMS is at the heart of lab operations, the people are majorly affected by the change. Teams may find it difficult to move away from systems and processes they trust and are already familiar with.
Preparing your people including the lab analysts, lab managers, shop floor users, and senior management is essential to building a foundation for the change. Clearly communicating the value of migrating to a new LIMS platform will help convince them better. Moreover, actively involving end users during the early stages of the migration process can motivate them to accept change faster.
CaliberLIMS: Your Easiest Upgrade to a Robust LIMS Platform
Trusted by global leaders and updated with the latest technology, CaliberLIMS can be your perfect LIMS partner for upcoming years. The software is meticulously designed to help labs perform efficiently, store data securely, and drive better decisions. Built-in ELN, 16 ‘plug-and-play’ modules, and many other exclusive features guarantee reduced review time and effective analysis for increased productivity and enhanced quality.
As the future unfolds, technological advancements will continue to shape the pharmaceutical industry. Embrace the rich legacy spanning over 22 years. CaliberLIMS is a highly flexible adaptable, and scalable platform, compliant as per USFDA, EU Annex 11, MHRA. It can be hosted from anywhere and accessed across multiple devices, empowering your lab to thrive in the digital age.
Invest in Caliber LIMS today and secure your position as an industry leader.
